The Seattle Seahawks will host the San Francisco 49ers in Week 1. Here’s the latest fantasy football news and advice to help you with your lineups this week and moving forward, specifically regarding RB Kenneth Walker III.
Is Kenneth Walker III Playing in Week 1?
Walker is not listed on the injury report this week, so barring any setbacks, he will play.
We’ll continue to monitor the Seahawks’ injury report leading up to kickoff for any changes. You can also visit and bookmark our Fantasy News Tracker for the latest updates.
Should You Start or Sit Kenneth Walker III in Week 1?
You’re allowed to ask plenty of questions when it comes to the profile of Kenneth Walker III. Can he hold up for a full season after missing multiple games in all three of his NFL seasons? Why has he lost over 8% in terms of yards per carry in consecutive seasons? Will Zach Charbonnet assume a greater role in a Sam Darnold-led offense than he did in years past?
Those are all fair concerns that impact the former second-round pick’s long-term outlook. What I’m not worried about is Week 1.
A fresh Walker is a problem, and this San Francisco 49ers defense is a liability in a major way. The 49ers gave up 29 or more points in five of seven games to close the 2024 season and finished as the second-worst red zone defense in the league, so I can’t imagine I need to convince you this defense is not anywhere close to the image that comes to mind when you first think of this franchise.
Walker has scored 18 PPR points in each of his past four September games. That may seem like a random stat, and at some level, it is, but I do think there’s something to it.
When is he ever going to be healthier? There were two games in 2024 in which Walker had a run gain of more than 20 yards, and they both came in September. There were three games in which he ran for a score and earned at least three targets, and all three came in his first four contests of the year.
Selling high on Walker could well be a discussion we are having in the next month or so. For now, enjoy a healthy version of him. An explosion version. A version that will make you think anything is possible and that you might have a league-winner on your hands.
Are you looking for start/sit advice for other players in your lineup? Read our Week 1 Fantasy Football Start ‘Em, Sit ‘Em article.
Kenneth Walker III’s Fantasy Points Projection in Week 1
Walker is projected to score 15.3 points in PPR formats. This includes 64.6 rushing yards, 0.6 rushing touchdowns, 2.8 receptions for 19.6 receiving yards, and 0.1 receiving touchdowns.
Check out the free PFSN Fantasy Start-Sit Optimizer for the latest projections and advice for your lineups this week.
Week 1 Weather Impact: Seahawks vs 49ers
Weather could be a factor in this outdoor game with temperatures at 65 degrees Fahrenheit and winds of 11 mph. The wind may impact deep passes and field goal attempts.
