Christine Michael Waived by Seahawks: Latest Details, Comments, Reaction

With C.J. Prosise coming off a breakout game and Thomas Rawls set to return from injury, the Seattle Seahawks elected to waive running back Christine Michael on Tuesday, per ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Ian Rapoport of NFL Network clarified that Michael's release was a football decision and not because of an off-field incident. Rapoport said "Rawls is better" when comparing the two running backs, while Schefter noted Rawls is ready.

Rawls tallied 830 rushing yards and five total touchdowns in 13 games last season but has just 25 yards on 19 carries this year. According to Bob Condotta of the Seattle Times, Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll said Rawls will return for Sunday's game against the Philadelphia Eagles if he remains healthy through practice.

Rawls suffered a hairline fracture in his fibula during a Sept. 18 game against the Los Angeles Rams.

The Seahawks gave Michael ample opportunities after Rawls' injury, and he started the next six games. The 26-year-old appeared to be well on his way to a productive season when he notched 106 rushing yards and two touchdowns on Sept. 25 against the San Francisco 49ers, but that was the only time this year he reached the 70-yard plateau on the ground.

He ran for a measly one yard on five carries against the Buffalo Bills in Week 9, and Seattle benched him for Prosise for Sunday's game against the New England Patriots.         

The rookie proceeded to lead Seattle in rushing yards (66) and receiving yards (87) during the 31-24 victory over New England at Gillette Stadium as a versatile playmaker. Michael struggled to replicate that impact with 22 rushing yards in what turned out to be his final chance to make an impression.