The Seattle Seahawks were gearing up for training camp with a promising group of running backs, but now face an unexpected setback. Running back Chris Carson is being forced to retire from the NFL due to a neck injury he sustained in the 2021 season.
NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport reported on July 26 that Carson will retire due to the severity of his neck injury. While Carson has not made an official retirement announcement yet, he will have to step away from the game for now. Rapoport also mentioned that the Seahawks will release Carson with a failed physical designation, which will allow him to collect several million dollars in injury protection benefits. This move is consistent with how the Seahawks have previously supported players like Kam Chancellor and Cliff Avril who had to retire early due to injuries.
Despite retiring at just 27 years old, Carson had a notable impact during his five seasons with the Seahawks. Originally drafted in the seventh round of the 2017 NFL Draft, Carson quickly proved himself as a valuable asset. In his second season, he surpassed 1,000 rushing yards, finishing with 1,151 yards and nine touchdowns. He followed up with another strong season in 2019, gaining 1,230 yards and seven touchdowns. Although a foot injury in 2020 limited his play, Carson still contributed nearly 1,000 scrimmage yards and nine touchdowns.
Carson’s 2021 season was cut short by a serious neck injury just four games in, and despite his optimism about a possible return, the injury ultimately ends his NFL career.
With Carson’s departure, the Seahawks will enter training camp without one of their key running backs. However, the team still boasts talent in the backfield. Rashaad Penny, who had an impressive season last year averaging 6.3 yards per carry, will lead the charge. Penny, who was drafted in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft, aims to prove himself and secure his first 1,000-yard rushing season.
Joining Penny will be rookie Kenneth Walker III, selected 41st overall in this year’s draft. Walker, who had a standout season with Michigan State, was the recipient of the Doak Walker and Walter Camp Awards after rushing for 1,636 yards and 18 touchdowns.
While Carson’s retirement is a significant loss for the Seahawks, the team appears well-positioned to maintain a strong rushing attack in 2022 with the depth and talent they have in their backfield.