Could Seahawks' Zach Charbonnet Make Injury Return vs. Broncos?

Seattle Seahawks running back Zach Charbonnet is pushing to make his return from an ACL injury suffered in the playoffs last season. 

With the bruising back responsible for 12 red zone touchdowns last season, it makes sense that Seattle would want him back in the fold as soon as possible.

But we know the medical staff will be preaching patience for Zach's return, and the running back hit the practice field last week, which is a great sign.

The big question is we just don't know when that will be.

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Head coach Mike Macdonald stated after the San Francisco 49ers loss that he wasn't sure if Charbonnet could return in Week 6 against the Denver Broncos, given that it is a short week.

Well, on Monday, the head coach was again asked about Zach, and he played a straight bat.

"I'll just I'll leave it at that," Macdonald said. "Like as of right now, answer is no. Subject to change. Trying not to be boxed in there. Wiggle room."

And in truth, having Zach return on a short week would make this decision feel a little rushed.

Although after witnessing George Holani's fumble issues in the 49ers' loss (he had two), maybe that will force Seattle's hand. I doubt it, but you never know.

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With Emanuel Wilson and Velus Jones Jr., along with Holani, the Seahawks have a trio of backs who we have seen make plays and give Sam Darnold a good running game.

The question is, do the Seahawks want to push Charbonnet to play on a short week, on the road in Denver? 

Or do they wait because they will have a mini-bye after the Broncos, and that will give Charbonnet a full 10 days to hit the practice field, get up to speed both physically and mentally, before maybe being on a pitch count against the Kansas City Chiefs at Lumen Field?

That is what the coaching staff is weighing up, and right now, if we had to guess, don't expect Charbonnet to make his season debut at Mile High.

Wait a week until you are at home against the Chiefs, and then maybe you let Zach loose in the Kenneth Walker revenge game.