Seahawks Hold Zach Charbonnet Out of Week 6 Denver Game

Seattle's backfield will likely remain shorthanded when the Seahawks visit the Denver Broncos for their Week 6 NFL game on Thursday, October 15, 2026. Head coach Mike Macdonald has indicated that running back Zach Charbonnet is unlikely to return from the physically unable to perform list, with the team's abbreviated preparation schedule complicating his recovery from a torn ACL.

According to the Seahawks and The Seattle Times, Charbonnet resumed practicing on October 1, beginning a 21-day window for the team to evaluate his readiness before deciding whether to activate him. That period expires next week, requiring Seattle to place him on the active roster before its Week 7 game against Kansas City if he is to play this season.

Macdonald left open the possibility of a change but said the current plan does not include Charbonnet against Denver.

"The plan right now isn't for sure for him to play," Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald said after Sunday's loss to the San Francisco 49ers.

Seattle's coach subsequently clarified that the decision remained subject to change, although the team was not preparing for Charbonnet to play.

"That could change, but as of right now, he's not going to play." Macdonald said.

The coach reiterated the uncertainty on Monday while avoiding a definitive declaration about Charbonnet's availability. The Seattle Times reported that the team wanted to preserve flexibility as it assessed the running back's progress.

"As of right now, answer is no. Subject to change. I try not to be boxed in there. Some wiggle room," Macdonald said.

Seattle must balance the player's rehabilitation with the demands of returning to NFL competition. Macdonald said the decision would depend on medical and performance assessments, including whether Charbonnet had accumulated enough preparation to compete safely and confidently.

"We have to have consensus from all parties that he's ready to go, he's the most confident and ready to go, that he's had enough exposure to go play an NFL game. Those are the variables at play here and one area of that equation," Macdonald said.

The Seahawks opened Charbonnet's practice window before their Week 4 game, but the Thursday kickoff against Denver leaves limited time for full-speed preparation. The team is expected to reduce practice intensity during the short week, making a return more difficult.

Macdonald acknowledged that the situation could evolve as the team evaluates the running back.

"Can that adjust as we go? Yeah, but we're trying to do right by the process right now is the best way to explain it." Macdonald said.

Seattle is also adjusting its weekly routine to account for recovery demands, travel and Denver's elevation. The team planned Monday for recovery, Tuesday for installing the game plan and Wednesday for final preparations and travel.

Macdonald said the schedule had been modified to balance physical readiness with preparation for the Broncos.

"We've tweaked our schedule a little bit," Macdonald said.

The coaching staff has considered different approaches to the compressed week while trying to maintain player health and ensure the offense is ready to execute its plan.

"We've done it multiple ways. You're fighting a battle on two fronts. It's the health, body battle of trying to get your body ready to play the best you can.

How you recover and how you get reps without going full speed, there's an element there. There's also something to be said about getting your body moving at some point before the game, that's something that we consider. That's number one.

Two, it's into the balance of having a great, clear, concise, aggressive plan that you can go execute at a high level." Macdonald said.

Charbonnet's potential absence would extend Seattle's reliance on alternative running backs. Rookie Jadarian Price remains on injured reserve and must miss at least two more games, leaving Emanuel Wilson, George Holani and Velus Jones Jr. as options, with Robert Henry Jr. also potentially available after joining the team earlier in the week.

The backfield's production has been a concern. According to The Seattle Times, Seattle recorded 89 rushing yards and lost two fumbles against San Francisco on October 11. The Seahawks are averaging 106 rushing yards per game, ranking No. 17 in the league, while producing 3.8 yards per attempt.

Charbonnet tore his ACL during Seattle's divisional-round victory over the 49ers in January. He was listed as limited in Monday's estimated injury report, alongside backup quarterback Drew Lock, who has a forearm issue, and guard Beau Stephens, who has a shoulder issue. The Seahawks did not conduct a full practice that day.

Linebacker Drake Thomas, along with Leonard Williams and Jaxon Smith-Njigba, also dealt with ankle issues after Sunday's game. Macdonald reported no significant new developments, and all three players finished the matchup against San Francisco.