Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
It’s no secret that the biggest key to offensive success for the Seattle Seahawks is Marshawn Lynch and the run game, but even an All-Pro running back like Lynch needs some help. That’s where second-year backup running back Robert Turbin comes in. Last season, Turbin did a great job in relatively limited action behind Lynch, but this year he could see more of an expanded role and, with it, an opportunity to contribute in new ways.
Turbin is an excellent pass catcher coming out of the backfield and this should prove to be quite a valuable skill for the Seahawks to utilize now that they have so many great offensive weapons. Last season, Turbin’s ability to make catches allowed him to serve as somewhat of a safe option in the flats for fellow rookie Russell Wilson whenever he was on the field.
The Seahawks have also added another running back, through the draft, named Christine Michael. Michael provides a similar style of play to that of Turbin, and should prove to be valuable by adding depth. With Michael now behind him on the depth chart, Turbin will have added motivation to play hard and develop into the player the Seahawks know he can become.
Turbin showed flashes of brilliance last year in big moments, and solid performances like that could be huge for Seattle this season as they hope to contend for the NFC West title. If Turbin can play his role and contribute when he is called upon, I think he could have a spectacular sophomore season and could put up some solid numbers.
Follow Connor Hutyler on Twitter @ConnorHutyler.
