Kenneth Walker III was in contention for fantasy MVP thanks to his impressive run since taking over as the Seahawks' starting running back, but an ankle injury at least temporarily halted his Rookie of the Year campaign. After missing last week, Walker's status is in question for Thursday night's showdown against the 49ers. With backup DeeJay Dallas (ankle) also dealing with an injury, knowing the latest updates on Walker's status is crucial ahead of locking in waiver pickups and your first start 'em, sit 'em decision of the week.
We'll continue to update this article with news on Walker until the official active/inactive report comes out on Thursday around 6:50 p.m. ET.
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Is Kenneth Walker III playing Thursday night Week 15?
UPDATE: Walker practiced in full on Tuesday and is likely to suit up for Thursday night's game.
UPDATE 2: Walker was not even on Seattle's final injury report, so he'll be good to go for Thursday's game against San Francisco.
Walker (ankle) failed to practice all of last week and was ultimately ruled out before Seattle's game against Carolina, but the mere fact that he was originally "questionable" gives us some hope for Week 15. After being an estimated "limited" on Monday, there's even more reason for optimism. Seahawks' coach Pete Carroll also suggested on Monday that Walker could play against the 49ers.
WEEK 15 STANDARD RANKINGS:
QBs | RBs | WRs | TEs | D/STs | Kickers
Seattle's playoff hopes are beginning to fade, so you know it will want Walker back in the lineup if at all possible. He's a must-start when active, even against San Francisco's top-ranked run defense. Since taking over Seattle's starter in Week 6, Walker has averaged 20.9 touches and 94.8 total yards while scoring eight total TDs in his six full games. If Seattle feels he's healthy enough to suit up on Thursday, it's fair to assume he'll get close to a full complement of touches. Even with the tough matchup, Walker has flex upside in all formats.
WEEK 15 PPR RANKINGS:
QBs | RBs | WRs | TEs | D/STs | Kickers
If Walker is out again, Travis Homer figures to lead the way, though that depends on whether DeeJay Dallas (ankle) is back. Dallas was an estimated "DNP" on Monday, but if he gets healthy and splits carries with Homer, both would be unplayable in fantasy leagues. If both Walker and Dallas are out, Homer has some low-end flex potential in PPR leagues, but given his low ceiling, he's probably someone you want to avoid with your season on the line.