Seahawks' QB Sam Darnold Questionable for Playoff Game Against 49ers Due to Oblique Injury

Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold has been listed as questionable for Saturday's NFC divisional playoff game against the San Francisco 49ers after sustaining an oblique injury during Thursday's practice. Darnold reported feeling discomfort in his left side while throwing passes and subsequently left practice as a precaution.

"I felt a little something in my oblique," Darnold said. "Just didn’t want to push it, wasn’t the day to push it. That was it. Just came inside, got some rehab and feel like I’ll be ready to play Saturday."

Despite the injury, Darnold expressed confidence in his ability to play, estimating the likelihood of missing the game as "close to zero."

Backup quarterback Drew Lock took additional snaps with the first-team offense during practice in Darnold's absence. Lock's last start occurred late in the 2024 season with the New York Giants.

In addition to Darnold, the Seahawks have ruled out offensive tackle Josh Jones due to a knee injury. Jones had started the final three games of the regular season at left tackle. Charles Cross, who missed recent games with a hamstring injury, is expected to return and start on Saturday.

The Seahawks are set to host the 49ers at Lumen Field on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 5:00 PM PST.