Jul 25, 2026; Renton, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald speaks to the media after the first training camp at Virginia Mason Athletic Center. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images
Seahawks Get Best Possible News After Sam Darnold’s Early Injury Exit 1
September 10, 2026 NFL, Featured, Seattle Seahawks
The Seattle Seahawks’ celebration of raising their Super Bowl banner and officially beginning a new season was short-lived on Wednesday. The team was dealt an early setback when an injury forced quarterback Sam Darnold to leave Seattle’s season opener.
Meanwhile, Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald provided encouraging news regarding the team’s star quarterback after the game.
Mike Macdonald Reveals Latest Update on Sam Darnold’s Injury
Darnold suffered the injury after being sacked on third down during Seattle’s opening drive. The quarterback immediately appeared to be in discomfort, limped off the field, and was eventually taken into the medical tent for further evaluation.
After emerging from the medical tent, Darnold slowly made his way toward the locker room, walking with a heavy limp. He was subsequently ruled out for the remainder of the game as Seattle opted not to risk further aggravating the injury.
NFL: New England Patriots at Seattle SeahawksNFL: New England Patriots at Seattle Seahawks
Sep 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; New England Patriots defensive end Dre’Mont Jones (5) sacks Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold (14) during the first quarter at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images
However, following the game, Macdonald delivered a positive update on Darnold’s condition. Initial X-rays showed that the quarterback had avoided a hip fracture, something the Seahawks head coach characterized as “great news” amid the team’s concern over its starting quarterback.
“And with Sam, we got some great news back,” MacDonald said. “It’s, let’s just say it’s good news right now, so it’s I know, still just, you know, our thoughts and prayers with Sam.
It remains too early to determine Darnold’s full prognosis or whether he will be healthy enough to play for Seattle in Week 2 against the Arizona Cardinals. However, Macdonald confirmed that the initial testing had ruled out one of the team’s biggest concerns.
“We love him. With Sam, I’m sure you’re awaiting more answers, but have you been able to rule out, like, a fracture or- At this point, we were able to rule out a fracture.
“So there’s some more tests to be done and, so that’s what I’m saying, when it’s positive, so, but I know it’s, We’re still working through all that, but right now I think fracture’s out, which is, which is great news.”
Despite Darnold’s unfortunate injury, Seattle managed to rally behind an impressive defensive performance and a strong showing from backup quarterback Drew Lock. The Seahawks initially fell behind, but Lock helped spark the comeback and connected with Jaxon Smith-Njigba on a 45-yard touchdown pass that shifted the momentum in Seattle’s favor.
Then, with just few seconds remaining, Josh Jobe came up with the game-sealing interception in the end zone, allowing the Seahawks to complete the comeback and secure a 13-10 victory to open the season. Lock finished the game 16-of-22 passing for 187 yards and one touchdown.
However, for now, the primary focus remains on Darnold and the severity of his injury. If the starting quarterback is forced to miss an extended period, Lock would undoubtedly be the leading candidate to step into the starting role for Seattle.
Entering the 2026 season, Darnold had firmly established himself as the Seahawks’ starting quarterback. He led Seattle to the Super Bowl LX championship last season during his first year with the team.
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