The Seattle Seahawks lost their reigning Super Bowl MVP and workhorse running back in free agency. Replacing Kenneth Walker III was a tall order, especially with a thin running back class in the NFL Draft.
Considering that, the Seahawks turned to former Green Bay Packers backup Emanuel Wilson early in the offseason. Then, his chances playing heavy snaps — or even making the roster — took a big hit when they drafted Jadarian Price in the first round.
That's why the veteran back is fighting with toes and nails and working on his pass-catching skills to make a strong impression in training camp. Judging by Mike Macdonald's words, it looks like he's on the right track.
The Seattle Seahawks might keep Emanuel Wilson after all
“I wouldn’t be surprised, but you kind of have a brand of ball that you’re used to,” Macdonald told the media. “And then when guys are out there making plays outside of the box you put them in, it’s awesome. Just shows you how talented he is. He made some great plays today.”
Wilson has never been the most proficient pass-catching back out there, which obviously hurts his chances of taking the field as a third-down guy. Even so, he's slowly but steadily gotten better in that regard, hauling in a career best 15 receptions for 99 yards last season.
That may not look like much, but he was stuck behind Josh Jacobs in the Packers' depth chart. Jacobs has always been an every-down back, and the Packers gave him as many touches as he could handle.
The Seahawks will most likely roll with Price as the workhorse, with George Holani as the first guy off the bench. He's a sturdy blocker with reliable hands in the passing game, sort of like a Zach Charbonnet 2.0 for Brian Fleury's offense.
That's why working on his hands will be paramount for Wilson's roster chances. He's a crafty and efficient player who does his damage between the tackles, but it's hard to believe he'll stand a chance next to the Seahawks' prized rookie.
Pro Football Focus (subscription required) gave Wilson a horrid 37.0 receiving grade last season. He drew 66.3 and 64.0 grades in his first two seasons, respectively. On the bright side, he's got steady hands, dropping just two passes with one fumble in his three years in the league. He averages a respectable 9.8 YAC as a receiver, so the potential is there.
Wilson is facing a tough challenge in the next couple of weeks, but his determination to work on his more glaring flaws is certainly a step in the right direction. Whether that will translate into a legitimate role when Price and Holani are healthy remains to be seen, but after being written off after the NFL Draft, it looks like he won't go down without a fight.
Also, as much as the initial pecking order has Price at the top, he's a rookie first and foremost. He's reportedly looked great in training camp, but he still has to earn his stripes like everyone else. If he's not as efficient or as ready, the Seahawks will have to shake things off and turn to the veterans for a much-needed spark.
There's no such thing as simply replacing Kenneth Walker III, and this team can't leave a stone unturned in their efforts to maintain their identinty and strong running game.
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