Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold listed as questionable for season opener against Patriots
Sam Darnold suffered a hip injury early in the Seahawks' opening drive and was ruled out for the remainder of the first half, leaving his status for the Week 1 game against New England uncertain.
Seattle quarterback Sam Darnold was knocked to the ground on the team's opening drive and required treatment in the medical tent. He was later classified as questionable to return and did not play after the first half of the game. Backup quarterback Drew Lock assumed the role for the rest of the contest.
The injury, described as a hip issue, could affect the Seahawks' passing attack and fantasy prospects if Darnold remains sidelined beyond the opening week. The team has emphasized the use of tight ends AJ Barner and Elijah Arroyo in varied formations, and coach Shane Waldron expects motion and shifts to create additional challenges for defenses.
Wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba is slated to continue on short and intermediate routes, while running back Shaheed is expected to see an increased role in similar patterns. The Seahawks will open the season at home against the New England Patriots, a rematch of the previous Super Bowl, with the game scheduled for September 9 on NBC.