Seahawks Quarterback Sam Darnold Exits Opener with Hip Injury
Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold suffered a hip injury in the first quarter against the Patriots, limping off after a sack. He was taken to the medical tent and later to the locker room, with his return listed as questionable. Backup Drew Lock took over under center.
The injury occurred on a third-down sack by Dre'Mont Jones, ending Seattle's opening possession. Darnold initially declined medical attention on the sideline before eventually entering the blue tent and walking to the locker room under his own power. The team officially designated his status as questionable due to the hip issue.
This setback contrasts sharply with Darnold's recent durability, as he played every regular-season game for Minnesota in 2024 and a full slate plus playoffs for Seattle last year. The Seahawks can turn to Drew Lock, a seasoned backup with 28 career starts, who previously filled in for Seattle during the 2023 campaign.
The early exit of a starting quarterback could significantly alter the Seahawks' season trajectory, affecting team morale, playoff odds, and the immediate game plan against a divisional rival. Fans and fantasy football players may face immediate adjustments, while the coaching staff must weigh Darnold's long-term health against the urgency of a Week 1 matchup. A prolonged absence could also impact the broader NFC playoff race, as Seattle's title defense relies heavily on their signal-caller's availability.