Seahawks defeat Patriots 13-10 as Darnold exits with hip injury

Seattle quarterback Sam Darnold suffered a hip injury on the first drive of the 2026 season opener and did not return, prompting backup Drew Lock to take over. Lock completed 16 of 22 passes for 187 yards and a touchdown, guiding the Seahawks to a 13-10 win over the New England Patriots.

The injury occurred when Darnold was sacked on third-and-6 and limped off the field. He was initially listed as questionable but was later ruled out before halftime. Head coach Mike Macdonald said medical staff confirmed there was no fracture, though further tests are planned.

Lock threw an 8-yard pass to Jaxon Smith-Njigba early in the game and later connected on a 45-yard touchdown to the same receiver on fourth-and-1 in the fourth quarter, tying the score at 10-10. Seattle’s defense added three interceptions in the final period, including a game-sealing pick in the last minute.

The Seahawks’ offense, which retained five starters on the line, shifted to a more conservative approach after Darnold’s exit, relying on running backs Jadarian Price and George Holani. If Darnold’s recovery requires extended time, third-string quarterback Jalen Milroe could see increased action.

Lock, a former Denver Broncos starter, had limited playing time last season but posted a solid performance in the win. The Seahawks, defending Super Bowl champions, now look to adjust their game plan while monitoring Darnold’s health.