Seattle Seahawks rookie running back Kenneth Walker III is dealing with a strained ankle and unique injury, head coach Pete Carroll confirmed in a radio interview on Monday.

Carroll said the strain to the inside of Walker’s ankle and foot is different than a typical sprain, making it more challenging to project when he could be ready to play. Carroll said Walker could possibly play this week against the Carolina Panthers, but much will depend on how the rookie responds to treatment.

Walker injured his right ankle in the second quarter of Sunday’s 27-23 road win against the Los Angeles Rams.

He was hurt while being pushed out of bounds for no gain after taking a pitch at the Rams’ 4-yard line, ending his day with three carries for 36 yards.

Carroll said he has never seen an injury that resembles Walker’s and described it as “inflammation” and a “jammed ankle.” Deejay Dallas led the Seahawks in rushing with 37 yards against the Rams but is also likely to be on the injury report with a “ligament issue” in his ankle, Carroll said.

Walker has rushed for 649 yards and nine touchdowns in 11 games (seven starts), adding 19 receptions for 116 yards.

The Seahawks (7-5) drafted Walker in the second round (41st overall) out of Michigan State.

–Field Level Media