Darnold eyes return against Washington after practice this week
Sam Darnold is expected to practice this week and could play against the Commanders after being injured in the opener. Drew Lock has started in his absence, throwing for 422 yards, four touchdowns and no interceptions in two wins. The Seahawks are preparing for Darnold's potential return.
Seattle’s quarterback situation is in flux as Sam Darnold nears a potential return from the injury he suffered in the season opener. The team plans to have him practice this week, with an eye toward facing Washington. His availability would mark a significant shift for an offense that has found stability under backup Drew Lock.
Lock has stepped in effectively, completing two straight wins while throwing for 422 yards, four touchdowns, and no interceptions. That production gives the coaching staff a difficult decision: whether to hand the job back to Darnold or ride the hot hand. For now, the Seahawks are preparing for both scenarios, with Darnold’s practice reps likely determining the starter.
This story could affect fantasy football managers and Seahawks fans who track weekly lineup decisions, as a quarterback change alters offensive expectations. It may also influence team morale and locker-room dynamics, since a healthy starter returning after a backup’s success creates subtle pressure. For the broader NFL audience, it highlights how injuries and depth chart choices shape playoff races, but its societal impact remains limited to sports enthusiasts and local community engagement.