The Seattle Seahawks have offered up plenty of praise for running back Chris Carson's versatility this offseason. It seems offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer sees great value in getting him more touches out of the backfield in the 2019 NFL season.
Carson served as the central force in a Seahawks run game that led the league in rushing. Schottenheimer indicated that he will try to get Carson out in space more often this time around, via Bob Condotta of the Seattle Times:
“People are understanding that getting the ball to your backs in space in the passing game is a good thing,” Schottenheimer said. “They're still as elusive as they are running the ball, so when you get them the ball out in space in the passing game it's the same problem for the defense. They got to still make those plays out in space on really good athletes.”
Schottenheimer's comments solidify the notion that Seattle will be looking to utilize the skill sets of their backs rather than forcing them to run up the middle a majority of the time.
This approach could help Carson make the most out of his touches while reducing the number of hits he is slated to take.
The former seventh-round pick enjoyed a breakout year after finishing the 2018 campaign with 1,151 yards and nine touchdowns. Although he only hauled in 20 receptions for 163 yards last season, it is clear that he has shown the coaching staff he is more than capable of handling an increased target share.
Carson's prowess as both a runner and a receiver will go a long way in helping him fend off touches from running back Rashaad Penny.
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