Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold faces 3-6 week absence after glute injury
Seattle quarterback Sam Darnold suffered a soft-tissue glute injury in the season-opening win and could miss three to six weeks, while backup Drew Lock is expected to continue starting.
Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold sustained a soft-tissue injury to his glute tendon and hip joint during the team's Week 1 victory over the New England Patriots. The 29-year-old left the game after completing one series and did not return.
Sports Illustrated reporter Albert Breer said the injury is “unique—to the glute tendon and the hip joint,” and that estimates for Darnold’s recovery range from three to six weeks, though the team has not set a firm timetable.
Head coach Mike Macdonald noted on Thursday that doctors confirmed the hip is intact and described the problem as “more like a muscle thing,” but he declined to give a specific return date.
Backup quarterback Drew Lock, who replaced Darnold and threw for 187 yards and a touchdown in the 13-10 comeback win, is expected to remain the starter. Macdonald praised Lock’s performance, saying he provides confidence and focus for the offense and should be ready to play again if needed.