A familiar face is returning to the Seattle Seahawks' backfield.

The team announced Thursday that it has re-signed running back Christine Michael. Originally a second-round pick by the Seahawks in 2013, Michael played two years in Seattle, but was released last summer.

He spent time with the Dallas Cowboys and Washington Redskins before returning to the Seahawks late in the season, carrying 39 times for 192 yards (4.9 YPC). From Weeks 15 to 17, Michael averaged 3.41 yards after contact, according to ESPN Stats & Information, ranking first in the NFL.

So how does Michael fit in the offense going forward?

He's a depth piece behind Thomas Rawls. Rawls is coming off of an ankle injury, but he led the NFL, averaging 5.65 YPC in 2015. Rawls was also first in yards after contact, averaging 2.68 per run. Assuming he's healthy, Rawls will be the Seahawks' primary ball carrier and replace Marshawn Lynch.

But the Seahawks need depth. The only other running back on the roster is Cameron Marshall, whom the team signed from the CFL.

Even with Rawls and Michael in the mix, the Seahawks are still in search of a third-down back. That's a need they could address in free agency or in the draft.