The latest Sam Darnold injury update is a setback for the Seattle Seahawks before their Week 9 matchup with the Arizona Cardinals. Head coach Mike Macdonald announced that Darnold will not play Sunday after suffering a quadriceps injury late in Seattle’s Week 8 loss to the Chicago Bears. The team also disclosed that Darnold sustained a cracked rib earlier in the game.
What happened to Sam Darnold?
Darnold’s quad injury occurred late in Monday night’s 34-17 loss to Chicago. Macdonald said the quarterback would be out for Week 9 and described the situation as week to week. The coach also said Darnold would not be placed on injured reserve, leaving open the possibility of a return once he is healthy enough to play.
The rib injury adds to the concern. According to the Seahawks, Darnold cracked a rib on the second offensive play against Chicago but continued playing. The quad injury later ended his night. The team has not announced a firm return date, so a more specific recovery timeline would be speculation.
Who will replace Sam Darnold at quarterback?
Seattle’s announced plan is for Drew Lock to start against Arizona, although Lock has also been dealing with an elbow injury. Head coach Mike Macdonald said the team would prepare both Lock and Jalen Milroe during the week, with Milroe expected to be ready as the backup. Seattle also signed Adrian Martinez to its practice squad as additional depth.
Lock has previous experience in the offense and completed 19 of 26 passes for 235 yards and three touchdowns in a Week 2 win over Arizona. That earlier performance offers some encouragement, but his current elbow status remains an important factor in the Seahawks’ preparation.
How Darnold’s absence affects the Seahawks
Darnold’s absence changes the preparation for Seattle’s offense. The coaching staff must adjust its passing plan, protection calls and quarterback movement depending on who is available. Seattle entered Week 9 at 4-4 and will face a division opponent that is also working through a quarterback change.
The Seahawks will need their running game, receivers and protection unit to support whichever quarterback starts. A strong performance from the offensive line and an efficient early-down approach could help reduce pressure on a backup quarterback.
When could Sam Darnold return?
The Seahawks have described Darnold’s quad injury as week to week and said he will not go on injured reserve. That is not a confirmed return date. His participation in practice and the team’s next injury report will provide the clearest indicators of his progress.
Sam Darnold injury update: Frequently asked questions
Is Sam Darnold playing in Week 9?
No. Seattle ruled Darnold out for its Week 9 game against the Arizona Cardinals.
What injuries does Sam Darnold have?
The Seahawks reported a quadriceps injury suffered late against Chicago and a cracked rib sustained earlier in the same game.
When will Sam Darnold return?
The team has described the situation as week to week and has not announced a firm return date.
More Seahawks and NFL coverage
Follow more league coverage in the Sportimatic NFL hub and see the NFL Week 9 schedule for upcoming matchups.
Sources
Seattle Seahawks: Sam Darnold out vs. Arizona due to quad injury. NFL.com: Seahawks QB Sam Darnold to miss Week 9.
