Seahawks Provide Updates on Injured Rookies Horton and Charbonnet

Coach Mike Macdonald discusses recovery timelines and plans for the young stars

Apr. 12, 2026 at 4:38pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist-style painting depicting a football player in motion, with their body and jersey fragmented into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in a kaleidoscope of team colors, conveying the dynamic and unpredictable nature of the sport.The Seahawks' strategic approach to managing player injuries showcases their commitment to long-term success, even as they navigate the unpredictable nature of the NFL.Seattle Today

At the NFL Annual Meeting in Phoenix, Seattle Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald provided updates on the recovery progress of two key rookie players, wide receiver Tory Horton and running back Zach Charbonnet, who both suffered injuries that cut short their 2025 seasons. Macdonald outlined the team's cautious approach to Horton's shin injury and optimism around Charbonnet's ACL tear, highlighting the Seahawks' focus on player welfare and long-term success.

Why it matters

These injury updates provide insight into the Seahawks' strategic planning and adaptability as they look to build on their recent Super Bowl run. The team's approach to managing player recoveries and maintaining depth showcases their commitment to fielding a competitive roster, even in the face of unexpected setbacks.

The details

Tory Horton, a fifth-round pick from Colorado State, had an impressive rookie campaign, excelling as a punt returner with five touchdowns and a 14.9-yard average. However, a shin injury cut his season short. Coach Macdonald indicated the team will take a gradual approach to reintegrating Horton into full training camp activities, prioritizing his long-term health. Zach Charbonnet, a key part of the Seahawks' running game, suffered a more severe ACL tear during the playoffs. While his recovery timeline is uncertain, Macdonald expressed optimism that Charbonnet will not miss the entire 2026 season, providing a boost to the team's backfield plans.

  • Tory Horton suffered a shin injury that ended his rookie season in 2025.
  • Zach Charbonnet tore his ACL during the Seahawks' divisional round playoff win over the 49ers in 2025.
  • Charbonnet underwent surgery to repair the ACL tear in February 2026.

The players

Tory Horton

A fifth-round draft pick from Colorado State in 2025, Horton had an impressive rookie season as a punt returner before a shin injury cut his year short.

Zach Charbonnet

A key part of the Seahawks' running game in 2025, Charbonnet suffered an ACL tear during the playoffs that required surgery in February 2026.

Mike Macdonald

The head coach of the Seattle Seahawks, Macdonald provided updates on the recovery progress of Horton and Charbonnet at the NFL Annual Meeting.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must take a cautious approach with Tory's recovery to ensure he's fully healthy and ready to contribute when the season starts.”

— Mike Macdonald, Head Coach, Seattle Seahawks

“Zach's ACL tear was a setback, but we're optimistic he won't miss the entire year. His determination and our medical staff's expertise will be key to his comeback.”

— Mike Macdonald, Head Coach, Seattle Seahawks

What’s next

The Seahawks will closely monitor Tory Horton's progress during the offseason and gradually reintegrate him into full training camp activities. Zach Charbonnet's recovery timeline will be evaluated in the coming months, with the team hopeful he can return at some point during the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The Seahawks' approach to managing the recoveries of Tory Horton and Zach Charbonnet showcases the team's commitment to player welfare and long-term success. By prioritizing a cautious, strategic approach, the Seahawks are positioning themselves to field a competitive roster, even in the face of unexpected injuries, as they look to build on their recent Super Bowl run.