Kenneth Walker? Bears Insider Connects RB To Chicago

It is a well-discussed topic at this point. The Chicago Bears went into the offseason needing at least an addition at running back, if not an overhaul. It felt like they were in a good spot to do so during the draft. Then the board kept shifting away from them. That is how they ended up with Kyle Monangai in the 7th round. Many still aren't convinced the team has a strong enough backfield. Yet the Bears haven't made any prominent moves to address it, spending OTAs and minicamps examining who they have. Now the urgency kicked up a notch. Nick Chubb, considered the best veteran remaining on the free agent market, is expected to sign with Houston. That leaves the Bears with dwindling options. Enter Kenneth Walker.

The former 2nd round pick has been a steady, reliable back in Seattle for the past few years. However, injuries hampered him last season. Now, some wonder if the Seahawks might be looking to move him. Bears insider Bill Zimmerman of Windy City Gridiron thinks that is possible.

He's not crazy for thinking so. Kole Musgrove of Seahawks Wire discussed the topic last month. He thinks the possibility, while not guaranteed, is definitely not out of the question.

The reason we are even bringing this up is because the selling point may never be higher for Walker. Yes, it's only one injury-defined season, but running backs are hit on nearly every single play they touch the ball, and it never gets easier as they age. This very well could be the last opportunity to get something - anything - of value from Walker in a trade. Not to mention Walker is entering the final year of his rookie contract.

The Bears have reasons to think Kenneth Walker can be had.

For one, the price to get him would be relatively cheap. He missed six games last season. Throw in the contract issue, and you're looking at no more than a 5th round pick to get him. Seattle saw Zach Charbonnet play really well late in the season. In the final six games, he had 331 yards, four touchdowns, and racked up 5.2 yards per carry. Seattle has built strong depth with Kenny McIntosh and Damien Martinez, too. Maybe they prefer keeping Kenneth Walker as insurance. A strong ground attack may be needed if Sam Darnold doesn't function well at quarterback. Then again, the Seahawks have never been shy about unloading players they know they won't be paying. There is no doubt Walker would be a great fit in Ben Johnson's offense. His mix of power and underrated speed would mesh well alongside Swift.