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The Seattle Times Seahawks fantasy football takes on Sam Darnold
Every source-backed article insight STACKED has extracted from The Seattle Times Seahawks about Sam Darnold.
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Positive
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Negative
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All The Seattle Times Seahawks insights about Sam Darnold
NegativeUsageOct 20, 2026
Sam Darnold attempted a career-high 51 passes in Thursday's overtime loss to Denver while the Seahawks ran the ball just 26 times. The Seahawks had a 15-to-13 pass-to-run ratio in the first half but aired it out mostly in the second half after falling behind 14-3. Coach Mike Macdonald acknowledged the team needs to do a better job of not falling behind multiple scores in the second half.NegativeProjectionOct 17, 2026
After throwing two more interceptions in the Seahawks' second straight loss, Darnold declined to compare his 2026 season to 2025, suggesting the team has regressed and needs significant improvement across multiple areas.NegativeUsageOct 16, 2026
Against Denver, Darnold was 21 of 30 for 220 yards when not pressured but 7 of 20 for 58 yards with five sacks and four throwaways when pressured; the pressure differential illustrates how pass-blocking regression has impacted his performance.NegativeProjectionOct 16, 2026
Darnold has thrown seven interceptions in the past four games, matching the total he threw in the entire 2023 season; the source notes there is understandable focus on Darnold in the wake of the past four games as the Seahawks have lost 10 turnovers with Darnold throwing two picks in each of their three defeats this season.NegativeProjectionOct 16, 2026
Darnold has thrown seven interceptions over four games this season; the source notes the Seahawks need a quarterback who can keep the ball in Seattle's hands and kill the clock, but 'they haven't gotten that level of play from Darnold this season,' contrasting with backup Drew Lock's performance.PositiveRoleOct 16, 2026
Coach Mike Macdonald stated emphatically he is not considering a quarterback change and reiterated confidence in Darnold despite recent turnover issues. Macdonald said 'We have a lot of faith in Sam. Sam has played great football for us. He's done a lot of great things this year' and emphasized that the Seahawks won a Super Bowl championship with Darnold, framing him as part of the solution rather than the problem. Macdonald also praised Darnold for taking ownership of his performance, saying 'He's the leader of our offense' and expressing gladness that Darnold was the first to take responsibility.NegativeProjectionOct 16, 2026
Darnold has thrown seven interceptions in the last four games, including two late in Thursday night's 17-14 loss to Denver, one of which came in overtime and led directly to the Broncos' game-winning 53-yard field goal. He has already thrown half as many interceptions in the last four games as he threw all of last season (14 in 17 games), representing a significant spike in turnover rate during a stretch where the Seahawks have lost three of their last four games.NegativeBustOct 16, 2026
Darnold threw two inexcusable interceptions in overtime loss to Denver, including a looper to Rashid Shaheed that was undercut and intercepted by Ja'Quan McMillian on third-and-seven in OT, and a calamitous floater to Tory Horton that was picked off by Kris Abrams-Draine with 1:31 left in the fourth quarter. With seven touchdowns and seven interceptions in his last four games, Darnold is the face of the Seahawks' offensive dysfunction. Coach Mike Macdonald acknowledged the performance wasn't good enough and noted that Darnold, as the team's quarterback leader, bears responsibility. The source states: if Darnold doesn't self-destruct, the Seahawks probably win. His turnovers are eroding trust despite earning time after winning a Super Bowl.NegativeProjectionOct 16, 2026
Darnold threw two interceptions in the final 1:25 and overtime to cost the Seahawks a 17-14 OT loss to Denver; he has now thrown seven interceptions in four games—half of what he threw all of last year—raising questions about whether he can lead the Seahawks to a Super Bowl title. The source notes that while Denver's pass rush (17 QB hits, 5 sacks) must be considered, Darnold sometimes held the ball too long, and plays like his final OT interception cannot happen at this stage of the season.NegativeUsageOct 16, 2026
Darnold was sacked five times in Thursday's game against Denver; he has been sacked 14 times this season, which ranks second-most in the NFL. The source attributes pressure issues to Seattle's offensive line being unable to keep the Broncos away from Darnold.NegativeProjectionOct 16, 2026
Darnold completed 27 of 51 passes for 278 yards in the Seahawks' 17-14 OT loss to Denver; the source notes he was 'mostly ineffective' for most of the night and threw two costly interceptions, including a pick in overtime that led to the game-winning field goal.NegativeBustOct 16, 2026
Darnold threw his second interception in the fourth quarter and overtime, this one intended for Rashid Shaheed on third-and-seven from the Seattle 28 in overtime, directly costing the Seahawks a 17-14 loss to Denver. Darnold acknowledged he "got greedy" and should have thrown a shorter pass to Cooper Kupp instead of the deep shot to Shaheed. The source notes Darnold has thrown seven interceptions in his last four games—half as many as he threw all of last season (14)—and the Seahawks have had three or more turnovers in three of their last four games, all ending in defeat.PositiveRoleOct 15, 2026
Early in the game, Darnold looked sharp, going 4 for 4 for 27 yards to start the contest. However, the drive stalled after back-to-back sacks once the Seahawks reached midfield, limiting his early momentum.NegativeProjectionOct 15, 2026
Darnold struggled significantly in the first half, completing just 7 of 15 passes for 15 yards with a long completion of 12 yards and averaging only 3.5 yards per pass. The source notes the passing offense woes aren't entirely on Darnold, as receivers were having difficulty getting open against Denver's depleted secondary, but his efficiency was notably poor.NegativeBustOct 15, 2026
Darnold threw two interceptions in the final 1:25 and overtime to cost the Seahawks a comeback win; his second pick in overtime led to the game-winning field goal. He has now thrown seven interceptions in his last four games and was sacked five times in this game alone, continuing a troubling pattern of 14 sacks through four full games this season (compared to 27 all of last season). The source notes this performance raises questions about his standing as the Seahawks' starting quarterback if the pattern continues.NegativeUsageOct 14, 2026
Darnold had two interceptions against the 49ers: one on third-and-10 to Jaxon Smith-Njigba on a sideline pass that was intercepted by Renardo Green (described as not the best decision, trying to be aggressive for the first down), and another on his first throw of the second half to tight end Elijah Arroyo where Green undercutting the route resulted in a pick (Darnold acknowledged needing to put more air under it).NegativeRoleOct 14, 2026
Darnold and offensive coordinator Brian Fleury have developed a plan to address interceptions by leaning more heavily on tried, true, and well-practiced plays that the team has a history of success using, allowing Darnold to make swift decisions and progress through reads more decisively.NegativeProjectionOct 14, 2026
Darnold has thrown five interceptions in three games since returning from a glute injury suffered five plays into the season opener, prompting concerns about regression and whether his turnover-less postseason that led to Seattle winning the Super Bowl is an outlier rather than the norm.NegativeBustOct 13, 2026
Since returning from injury, Darnold has thrown five interceptions in his last three outings, part of the Seahawks' alarming turnover problem with nine giveaways over the last four weeks; the source identifies him as part of the problem contributing to the team's struggles.NegativeUsageOct 13, 2026
The source criticizes Darnold's passing distribution, noting it would be nice if he did something besides just throwing to Jaxon Smith-Njigba, suggesting limited offensive diversity and over-reliance on one receiver.NegativeProjectionOct 13, 2026
Sam Darnold threw two interceptions against the 49ers and has five INTs in his four starts, on pace for 20 interceptions over a full season; the source notes he needs to shake off shaky play fast with Drew Lock impressing during his time, indicating concern about his turnover rate and performance trajectory.PositiveRoleOct 12, 2026
Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold was the subject of a late hit by 49ers linebacker Dre Greenlaw along the Seattle sideline during the first half of the Seahawks' 32-29 loss to San Francisco. Darnold expressed appreciation for his teammates' defensive support, saying 'That was just craziness on the sideline. Then I actually saw firsthand Dre head butt EJ there. Yeah, it's not a surprise. I know those guys got my back and I got theirs. It's just how we roll as a team.' Darnold's comments reflect strong team cohesion and his confidence in his offensive line and defensive teammates.NegativeProjectionOct 12, 2026
Darnold was sacked five times—the most he's ever been sacked in a game for the Seahawks—and threw two interceptions while appearing flustered by the 49ers' pass rush; he was sacked on his first dropback and threw an interception on his first pass attempt, setting a tone of early struggles that persisted throughout the game.NegativeInjuryOct 12, 2026
Darnold suffered a glute injury in the opener that has compounded the Seahawks' offensive struggles. The source notes this injury did not help matters as the team navigates a new offensive coordinator, the absence of Kenneth Walker III and Zach Charbonnet, and the recent loss of Jadarian Price.NegativeRoleOct 12, 2026
Darnold's decision-making burden has increased due to offensive limitations: the run game relies on Emanuel Wilson and George Holani (neither a serious threat), and the passing game is heavily dependent on Jaxon Smith-Njigba (37 catches) with minimal secondary options—AJ Barner has 12 catches, Cooper Kupp 11, and George Holani 11. This concentration of targets on one receiver puts additional responsibility on Darnold to be cleaner with decisions and throws, yet he's failing to do so.NegativeUsageOct 12, 2026
Against the 49ers, Darnold finished 18 of 29 for 195 yards with one 16-yard touchdown (credited largely to Jaxon Smith-Njigba's skill) and two interceptions. The two picks are compounded by a lackluster run game and two fumbles that directly led to 14 points for San Francisco. The source emphasizes that overcoming two fumbles is possible only if the quarterback doesn't also throw two interceptions, making ball security the critical controllable factor.NegativeProjectionOct 12, 2026
Darnold's playoff performance last season—three games, no turnovers, one Super Bowl win—created expectations for sustained excellence this season. However, through three games, he has reverted to a mistake-prone version; he's thrown five interceptions in 88 pass attempts (5.6% interception rate), exceeding his career-high of 4.3% from last season and surpassing even his struggling rookie year with the Jets. The source notes this is a significant concern that needs to change.NegativeProjectionOct 12, 2026
Quarterback threw two more interceptions against San Francisco, surrendering a pick on the opening possession for a second straight week; the source characterizes this as evidence that Darnold may be the same turnover-prone player from last season, noting he paired seven touchdown passes with five picks over his last three games, with gutting giveaways in losses to the 49ers and Commanders, and that while he's earned patience, trust must be rewarded with results.NegativeProjectionOct 12, 2026
Darnold has thrown five interceptions in three games after tossing two more against the 49ers and could have easily thrown a third on a pass into double coverage to Rashid Shaheed in the end zone; the source notes 'The Sam Darnold that many questioned a year ago if he might be too mistake-prone to ever win a Super Bowl unfortunately may be back, even if — hopefully — just temporarily.'NegativeUsageOct 11, 2026
Darnold threw a forced interception on the second offensive play of the game, exemplifying the Seahawks' poor ball security; the source notes all four Seahawks turnovers were avoidable and that the team does not appear to cherish holding onto the football this season.NegativeUsageOct 11, 2026
Darnold threw two interceptions in the Seahawks' 32-29 loss to the 49ers; one interception at the Seattle 18 in the first half led directly to a 49ers touchdown. His second pick came on the second play of the second half. The turnovers were a primary reason for the defeat.NegativeProjectionOct 11, 2026
Darnold threw an interception three plays into the game and struggled with offensive execution in the first quarter. He was forced to move off primary reads on several occasions and took a couple of bad sacks. By the end of the first quarter, he had thrown his fourth interception of the season on a third-and-10 play where he attempted to hit Smith-Njigba on an out but threw directly to 49ers cornerback Renardo Green.NegativeUsageOct 11, 2026
Darnold threw two interceptions in the game; his first came on the second play of the third quarter when he tried to hit Elijah Arroyo on a crossing route but the pass was poor and undercut by Renardo Green; he also threw an interception on the Seahawks' first drive of the second half.NegativeUsageOct 11, 2026
Threw two interceptions in the game, including one on the opening possession to 49ers cornerback Renardo Green and a second on the second play after halftime; the turnovers contributed to a 21-point swing for San Francisco and negated strong defensive and special teams efforts in the 32-29 loss.NegativeMatchupOct 10, 2026
Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold's ability to avoid turnovers will be critical to Seattle's chances of securing a win against the 49ers, according to the source's analysis of the matchup.NegativeProjectionOct 6, 2026
Sam Darnold ranks 10th in PFF QB grades, dragged down mostly by three interceptions in 69 attempts but otherwise posting a stat line comparable to last season; his passer rating of 101.1 is better than last year's 99.1 despite a higher interception percentage.NegativeInjuryOct 6, 2026
The Seahawks' quarterback sustained a glute injury on the season's fifth play and missed most of the first two games. Upon his return to the lineup, Darnold's performance has been bumpy, throwing three interceptions over the last two games.NegativeUsageOct 5, 2026
Darnold threw an interception on the second play of the Seahawks' Week 4 game against the Chargers, but the Seahawks' defense responded by holding Los Angeles to a field goal on the ensuing possession; Darnold did not turn the ball over again and led Seattle to a 20-6 halftime lead.NegativeProjectionOct 5, 2026
Darnold completed 13 of 22 passes for 168 yards and two TDs while keeping the ball out of harm's way after an early interception on Seattle's first snap—his third in two games. The source notes his performance was 'well enough from there, if not spectacularly,' suggesting solid execution despite the turnover-prone start.NegativeProjectionOct 4, 2026
Sam Darnold threw a back-to-back interception on the second offensive snap in the Seahawks' 30-23 win over the Chargers, part of a game marked by poor offensive execution and lack of rhythm.NegativeUsageOct 4, 2026
Sam Darnold threw an interception on the second play of the game when he attempted to hit running back Emanuel Wilson near the sidelines, throwing it to Chargers defensive lineman Tuli Tuipulotu; this marked the first time since 1978 that interceptions occurred on the first two plays of a game.NegativeProjectionOct 4, 2026
Darnold was 4 for 7 in the first quarter with two passes going to Emanuel Wilson and two connections with Jaxon Smith-Njigba; he threw an interception on Seattle's first offensive snap when he tried to force a throw to Wilson that was intercepted by Tuli Tuipulotu (Tuipulotu's first career interception), contributing to a shaky early offensive performance with only three first downs and 0 for 3 on third downs in the opening quarter.PositiveProjectionOct 4, 2026
Darnold threw two touchdown passes in the Seahawks' 30-23 win over the Chargers, including a 6-yard TD pass to Tory Horton in the third quarter, demonstrating effective execution in the passing game despite a chaotic game environment with 24 combined penalties.NegativeProjectionSep 29, 2026
Darnold returned from a hip injury and threw for 379 yards and four touchdowns against the Commanders, but also threw two interceptions including a pick-six that proved costly in the loss. The source notes his performance was strong in volume but marred by turnovers, and expects him to get back on track against the Chargers in Week 4.PositiveProjectionSep 29, 2026
Quarterback Sam Darnold believes Jaxon Smith-Njigba is continuing to improve and praised his work ethic and competitive mindset, suggesting confidence in sustained elite performance from his star receiver.PositiveProjectionSep 29, 2026
Quarterback threw for 379 yards in the loss to Washington, with the Seahawks passing 46-to-18 overall and 23-to-6 in the second half due to game script and the Commanders' 30th-ranked pass defense. Seattle's 8.1 yards per pass play on offense ranks third highest in the NFL, which Macdonald noted is "the most critical number for a team's win-loss success."NegativeProjectionSep 28, 2026
In Sam Darnold's first game back from injury, he looked a little rusty. The Seahawks only totaled 25 yards on their first three drives combined. Darnold threw three straight incompletions from Washington's two-yard line on a first-half possession that ended with zero points for Seattle.NegativeInjurySep 28, 2026
Darnold returned from his glute injury Sunday, just 18 days after he left Lumen Field in an ambulance. In his return to the lineup, he threw for 379 yards and four touchdowns but also threw two second-half interceptions, including a disastrous pick-six with under four minutes left to play.PositiveProjectionSep 28, 2026
Quarterback threw for 379 yards and four touchdowns against Washington despite the Seahawks' run game struggles, though he also threw two interceptions. Darnold acknowledged the run game issues but emphasized the need to be more efficient on early downs.NegativeProjectionSep 28, 2026
Quarterback alternated between boom and bust in Week 17 after missing most of the last two games with a glute injury; completed 31 of 45 passes for 379 yards and four touchdowns but threw two interceptions, including a devastating 50-yard pick-six to linebacker Kain Medrano with less than four minutes remaining while trailing 27-24.NegativeBustSep 27, 2026
Darnold threw a critical pick-six late in the game that gave the Commanders the cushion they needed; he acknowledged the miscue, saying he saw linebacker Kain Medrano and should have thrown the ball away. His other interception was a pass deflected at the line of scrimmage, but the pick-six was an unfortunate reminder of what ailed the Seahawks in their three losses last season.PositiveProjectionSep 27, 2026
Darnold made an admirable comeback from a glute injury to return after just 18 days and showed no ill effects, throwing for 379 yards of the Seahawks' 437 total yards and providing most of the offense for much of the day.PositiveProjectionSep 27, 2026
Darnold played great for the most part in the loss to Washington, with the primary blemish being a telegraphed pass intercepted by Kain Medrano and returned 50 yards for a touchdown late in the fourth quarter; his overall performance was strong despite the turnover.PositiveInjurySep 27, 2026
Darnold made a remarkable recovery from a serious hip injury sustained 18 days prior when he was taken out of Lumen Field via ambulance after just five plays against the Patriots on Sept. 9. He returned to play against Washington and reported feeling great physically, though he appeared to need a series or two to warm up before getting hot and leading multiple scoring drives.NegativeProjectionSep 27, 2026
Darnold threw for 379 yards and four touchdowns but was marred by two interceptions in the Seahawks' 33-31 loss to Washington; threw a critical pick-six to linebacker Kain Medrano with 3:57 remaining that gave the Commanders a 33-24 lead and effectively ended the game. The source notes he made a bad decision on the final interception, acknowledging he should have thrown the ball away instead of forcing it over the middle to AJ Barner.NegativeProjectionSep 27, 2026
Quarterback returned from glute injury in Week 3 start against Washington; on his first drive, he was 1 for 2 passing with a 9-yard completion to Rashid Shaheed, was forced to scramble on his first pass attempt (incomplete to AJ Barner), and the drive ended in a punt after the Seahawks reached midfield but came up short on a long third down; the source noted Darnold 'looked to have good mobility and movement in getting out of the pocket.'NegativeProjectionSep 27, 2026
Darnold threw his first interception of the season when his pass attempt for Jaxon Smith-Njigba was deflected off a helmet and intercepted by Washington's Sonny Styles, leading to a Washington touchdown.PositiveProjectionSep 27, 2026
Darnold showed no signs of rust in his return from glute injury, completing 7 of 9 passes for 99 yards and a TD in the opening quarter, then going 5-for-5 for 73 yards and a score on the fourth drive; he avoided careless mistakes and did not appear limited by the injury when scrambling in the pocket.PositiveRoleSep 27, 2026
Despite the interceptions, Darnold demonstrated resilience and efficiency in his return. He led a 68-yard touchdown drive in just 1:06 after the pick-six, completing five consecutive passes to Cooper Kupp for a 7-yard TD. Over his last two years, Darnold has led nine fourth-quarter comeback wins and five game-winning drives, winning 29 games—the most in the NFL since 2024—establishing him as a clutch performer despite Sunday's loss.NegativeProjectionSep 27, 2026
Darnold returned from a glute injury and threw two interceptions in the Seahawks' 33-31 loss to Washington, including a 50-yard pick-six to Kain Medrano with 3:57 remaining that proved back-breaking. Despite the turnovers, Darnold connected with nine different receivers and delivered the ball on time with confidence, showing no apparent lingering effects from the injury.PositiveRoleSep 26, 2026
Darnold is returning to action in Week 3 after a quick recovery from a soft tissue glute injury suffered in the season opener. He made a full recovery, practiced fully Thursday and Friday, and expressed his desire to play. He had one of his best games last season against Washington, completing 21 of 24 passes for 330 yards, four touchdowns and one interception, and figures to be amped up to finally get his season rolling after getting just five snaps against the Patriots.PositiveInjurySep 25, 2026
Darnold will play Sunday vs. Washington after suffering a soft-tissue glute injury on the first series against New England. He was initially taken off the field by ambulance for a CT scan that showed no breaks. The team did not place him on injured reserve, indicating a quick recovery was expected. After being listed as limited Wednesday, Darnold was a full participant Thursday and Friday. Coach Mike Macdonald said he "is going to play" and "he's ready to go," adding "he's done a great job" in practices this week. Macdonald joked it was "a medical miracle that he's back," noting Darnold showed confidence and felt great in practice.PositiveInjurySep 24, 2026
Darnold suffered a glute soft-tissue injury in the season opener against New England on Sept. 9 and was initially feared to have a broken or dislocated hip. He was taken from the field via ambulance and diagnosed with a soft-tissue glute injury after a CT scan ruled out fractures. As of Thursday practice, he was listed as a full participant after being limited Wednesday, his first practice since the injury. Darnold said he is "really striving" to play Sunday against Washington and planned to ramp up reps Thursday and Friday. Coach Mike Macdonald indicated a decision on Darnold's status would come Friday, with the injury on a "good track." If he plays Sunday, it will be 18 days after the injury.PositiveInjurySep 23, 2026
Darnold returned to practice two weeks after suffering a soft-tissue glute injury (initially feared to be a hip dislocation) sustained during the season opener against New England on Sept. 9. He was listed as limited in practice and did not take every rep, with coach Mike Macdonald indicating the team will ramp up his workload as the week progresses. Macdonald stated the injury is 'on a good track right now, assuming today goes well,' and the team will decide by Friday whether Darnold is ready to play Sunday against Washington. If Darnold shows he's able to play, he will be the starter.NegativeInjurySep 22, 2026
Darnold suffered an injury in the season opener and has been replaced by Drew Lock. There is building buzz that Darnold could return to practice as soon as the current week, but the source notes the Seahawks should feel no pressure to rush him back onto the field after a 2-0 start with Lock performing well.PositiveInjurySep 21, 2026
Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald said Darnold is expected to return to practice in some capacity on Wednesday, ahead of the initially expected recovery timeline from his glute injury suffered in the opener. Macdonald noted that Darnold's timeline had shifted for the better and he was ahead of schedule, opening up the possibility of return as soon as Sunday's game at Washington.NegativeRoleSep 21, 2026
Darnold was unavailable for the Seahawks' 31-7 victory over Arizona, with Drew Lock starting in his place and performing outstandingly.NegativeRoleSep 21, 2026
Darnold is the Seahawks' starter but is currently injured. Lock credited Darnold for preparing him to succeed, meeting with him after a Thursday walk-through to discuss blitz pickups and protections. The source states 'Lock is better because of Darnold, and vice versa.' Darnold is expected to return as the starting quarterback when healthy, which could be as soon as the following Sunday at Washington. The source emphasizes this is not a quarterback competition or controversy.NegativeInjurySep 21, 2026
Darnold was injured and unavailable for the game, with Drew Lock stepping in as his replacement.PositiveInjurySep 21, 2026
Darnold's recovery from a glute injury suffered in Week 1 against the Patriots has accelerated significantly; coach Mike Macdonald said his timetable 'has shifted quite drastically' in the last 10 days. The team initially feared a hip fracture, but tests revealed a unique soft-tissue glute injury. Further testing over the past week increased team optimism about a quick return. Macdonald indicated Darnold is 'possible' to play against Washington and said 'there's a chance that he comes back and practices at some point' this week, with a clearer picture expected by Wednesday when game planning begins. The team did not place him on injured reserve, preserving the option for a near-term return.NegativeInjurySep 20, 2026
Sam Darnold is recovering from an injury and could—should—return by the time the Seahawks play consecutive games against the Chargers and 49ers in the coming weeks.NegativeInjurySep 20, 2026
Darnold was unavailable for the Seahawks' game against Arizona, with Drew Lock taking the starting role in his absence. The source does not specify the nature or severity of Darnold's injury.PositiveInjurySep 20, 2026
Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald said that Darnold's timetable for returning from his glute injury suffered in the opener against the Patriots 'has shifted quite drastically' in the last 10 days, suggesting he could be available to play next Sunday at Washington. The quick recovery trajectory indicates the injury may be less severe than initially feared.NegativeInjurySep 20, 2026
Seahawks lost quarterback Sam Darnold for at least Week 2 and possibly more to a glute injury, forcing backup Drew Lock into the starting role against Arizona.NegativeInjurySep 18, 2026
Out for Sunday's game at Arizona after suffering a glute injury against the Patriots. Coach Mike Macdonald said Darnold progressed "great" during the week and is "on his way back," but it's too soon to say when he'll return. The Seahawks did not place him on injured reserve, indicating they believe he won't miss more than four games. Macdonald expressed optimism about his timeline but left it open-ended: "Is it next week? Is it the week after? Is it the week after that? I'm not sure."NegativeInjurySep 18, 2026
Darnold is sidelined with a soft-tissue glute injury and will not play Sunday; he might miss another game or two as he recovers. He has remained present in meetings and the locker room supporting Lock during the week.NegativeInjurySep 16, 2026
Darnold suffered a glute soft-tissue injury on the first possession of the Sept. 9 win over New England and will miss at least the Week 2 game at Arizona. ESPN sources estimate he will miss roughly three to four weeks from the time of injury, with a return for the 49ers game in Week 5 (Oct. 11) feeling like a possibility. The Seahawks do not anticipate placing him on injured reserve, suggesting they hope for a return before that deadline. Darnold is progressing well in rehab and moving around better in recent days.NegativeInjurySep 15, 2026
Seahawks QB Sam Darnold suffered a hip injury on the first drive of the game against the Patriots. The consensus is that he avoided anything long-term or season-ending, with good news that he will be out for a short time rather than facing an IR stint. The injury cast a pall over the home crowd at Lumen Field early in the game.NegativeInjurySep 14, 2026
Darnold has been diagnosed with a very unique soft tissue injury in his glute following extensive tests; his hip joint is unaffected. The team has classified it as a short-term injury with no firm timeline, but confidence remains he will not be out long. He will likely miss Sunday's game at Arizona and has not been placed on injured reserve, suggesting the Seahawks anticipate his return by the 49ers game on Oct. 11 at the latest, though the hope is he returns quicker.NegativeInjurySep 13, 2026
Darnold is expected to miss Week 2 at Arizona due to a glute/tendon injury suffered when sacked by Dre'Mont Jones in Wednesday's game against the Patriots. Jay Glazer reported it as a tendon injury in the glute; Ian Rapoport characterized it as a muscle injury not considered major. Both sources indicated Darnold will miss Week 2, with a possible return for Week 3 at Washington on Sept. 27, though the Seahawks are seeking four second opinions to determine the exact timetable. Rapoport's description suggested probably a couple games of absence.