Kenneth Walker III | Michigan State 5’9” 211 lbs. | 10/20/2000 (Age 21)
Kenneth Walker III was drafted with the ninth pick of the second round by the Seattle Seahawks, becoming the second running back and 41st overall player selected in the 2022 NFL Draft.
COLLEGE PRODUCTION
After making the mistake of signing with Wake Forest, Kenneth Walker III was relegated to a committee backfield his first two collegiate seasons. Though he produced well, the coaching and supporting cast held him back. However, he chose to transfer to the BIG10 and joined Mel Tucker’s Spartans before this past season. As a junior this past season, he exploded for 1636 yards on 263 carries for a 6.2 YPC average. He averaged a reception per game and scored 19 TDs and proceeded to win the Walter Camp Player of the Year and Doak Walker (nation’s top running back) awards, in addition to receiving first-team Associated Press All-American and Big Ten Running Back of the Year honors.
ATHLETIC TESTING
Walker III posted mediocre vertical and broad jumps of 34” and 122” respectively. However, he blew away the rest of his peers when he recorded an impressive 4.38 40-yard dash. At 5’9” 211 lbs., Walker III is sturdy enough to handle the load and possesses home run speed.
DRAFT ANALYSIS
Rapid Reaction to Draft Capital: Excellent
Rapid Reaction to Landing Spot: Great
Kenneth Walker III was selected with the 41st overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft by the Seattle Seahawks.
FANTASY INSIGHTS
Your author loves this landing spot because Chris Carson has health concerns that put the remainder of his career in jeopardy, so Walker III immediately steps in as the best RB on the team. Seattle is a team that always forces the run game on its opponents, so we can expect high volume. Walker III does need to work hard to develop as a legitimate receiving option out of the backfield, so anticipate a two-down role in his first season or two. Walker III is easily in play to be a top-three selection in dynasty rookie drafts and could be justified as the 1.01, knowing Breece Hall may also contend with Michael Carter as a third-down and two-minute drill threat.
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