NFL rumors: Seahawks expected to trade $6.8M bust during 2026 season

After losing Kenneth Walker this offseason, the Seattle Seahawks made multiple RB additions, but that could cost Zach Charbonnet heading elsewhere before the trade deadline in the latest NFL rumors projections. One source believes Seattle might be open to trading Charbonnet if he can’t get back to his old self before sustaining a season-ending injury last year. Unfortunately, the UCLA product is still recovering, but the Seahawks remain hopeful he’s ready to go for Week 1. If not, the Seahawks have a strong list of downhill runners prepared to make a statement this upcoming campaign.

The team took Jadarian Price in the first round of this year’s draft while signing Emanuel Wilson to a one-year “prove it” deal. George Holani is also in the mix to rotate this offense and provide QB Sam Darnold with hope in the backfield. However, Charbonnet is entering the final year of his rookie contract, so he’s at a disadvantage. The RB would’ve hoped for a different outcome during the 2025 campaign in terms of looking for a new deal.

Now, the RB is fighting for a job to stay in Seattle, so it’s something to monitor over the next few weeks.

NFL Rumors: Seahawks Expected to Trade $6.8M Bust During 2026 Season

Will Seattle Be the Same?

Despite re-signing pass-catchers Rashid Shaheed and Jaxon Smith-Njigba this offseason, Seattle’s heart and soul might be done. It’s hard to repeat as Super Bowl champions unless you’re the Kansas City Chiefs. This doesn’t mean Sam Darnold can’t get the job done, but they had one of the most dangerous defenses, too. Unfortunately, they lost CB Riq Woolen, S Coby Bryant and defensive pass-rusher Boye Mafe.

While it’s not the end of the world, it’s enough to think what if the Seahawks are soon to be a rebuild team in the next few seasons? Darnold will probably need to lean on his receiving unit for the first few weeks if Charbonnet misses time. However, they have some hope in Holani, Price, and Wilson to handle the starting reps.

All of this would come at the expense of the former second-rounder, tho. If he can’t fit into the scheme anymore, especially with offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak gone, a trade is sensible. Here are three teams who could be interested.

3. Baltimore Ravens

With Derrick Henry getting older, the Baltimore Ravens will need to think about the future after him. While he hasn’t shown signs of slowing down, he had a few fumbling issues last season. Baltimore allowed Keaton Mitchell to walk in free agency, who joined the Los Angeles Chargers, so there’s room for Charbonnet to join a fast-paced offense. The Ravens don’t need an immediate answer, as they have Justice Hill to turn to.

Between Henry and the Seahawks RB, they could form a ferocious duo once healthy.

2. Denver Broncos

This would be an interesting landing spot for Charbonnet. The Denver Broncos don’t need an RB as they’re in a current logjam after re-signing JK Dobbins, but they’ve been consistent as a unit. RJ Harvey is the lone promising downhill runner in the room, but Dobbins is set for starting reps. With Jaleel McLaughlin and Jonah Coleman fighting for the roster spot, the Broncos might be better off with Harvey and the Seahawks RB.

1. Chicago Bears

If the Bears want to appear in the NFC Championship Game next year, they have to get more physical. With D’Andre Swift getting old and Roschon Johnson a cut candidate, the Bears could look to upgrade their RB room during the 2026 season. Charbonnet might be coming off a season-ending injury that could spark concern for his durability, but he’s still a versatile bullet that can take this offense, including QB Caleb Williams, to new heights.