Kenneth Walker III is ready to tear up the Emerald City as a member of the Seattle Seahawks. The former Michigan State RB will be making his debut.

According to John Boyle of the team’s official website, Walker is expected to make his professional debut Sunday against the San Francisco 49ers. The former Spartans star underwent hernia surgery last month during the preseason.

“I tend to be on the optimistic side of things, but I’m counting on it,” Seahawks coach Pete Carroll said per Liz Matthews of Seahawks Wire . “He went through the walkthrough today, he will get the afternoon practice as well, and he did some stuff last week, which gives us the indication.”

Drafted 41st overall last April, Walker was expected to be Seattle’s new lead runner following the retirement of Chris Carson. Last week in the team’s 17-16 win over the Denver Broncos, Seattle totaled 76 rushing yards off 19 carries. Veteran Rashaad Penny led the way with 60 yards off 12 rushing attempts.

Walker, a 1-year starter under Mel Tucker, became a staple of the Spartans’ offense in 2021. Electing to transfer from Wake Forest, Walker hit the ground running the second he touched down in East Lansing. Helping the Spartans finish 11-2 with a Peach Bowl victory over Pitt, Walker rushed for 1,636 yards and 18 touchdowns off 263 carries.

For his efforts, Walker won both the Walter Camp and the Doak Walker Awards. He was also named a unanimous All-American.

The Seattle Seahawks and San Francisco 49ers face off Sunday at 4:05 p.m. ET on FOX.