Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold left the field early in the season opener against New England after taking a hard hit on the first drive. The injury occurred on third-and-six near midfield when Patriots defensive lineman Dre’Mont Jones sacked Darnold. Darnold appeared to be in pain as he walked toward the sideline and later headed to the medical tent for evaluation.
He was seen limping and winced as he moved, which raised concern among fans and officials, according to Yardbarker. Darnold initially waved off medical staff but later went to the locker room for further testing, according to a report from CBS Sports. He was officially ruled out just before halftime, and Drew Lock entered the game for Seattle’s second drive.
Lock had been preparing as a backup during the season and had experience stepping in when needed. The Seahawks’ starting quarterback, 29-year-old Sam Darnold, had been a standout performer in his debut season with Seattle. He threw for 4,048 yards and 25 touchdowns during the regular season, with a 14 interception total.
Darnold also excelled in key games, including two victories over the Rams. Despite his injury, Darnold had a history of playing through pain, even during the Super Bowl last season. This season, Seattle faces a tough challenge after losing key figures like Kenneth Walker III and Klint Kubiak.
Drew Lock, who has started games in his career with a completion percentage under 60%, was given the opportunity to step in. Lock had played some preseason games and showed solid performance during those sessions. Jalen Milroe is the Seahawks’ emergency third quarterback, ready to step in if needed.
NBC broadcast team confirmed Darnold as questionable for returning due to a hip injury. The injury was not treated as precautionary, indicating the severity was unclear but significant enough to require attention. New England entered the game looking to improve after their disappointing Super Bowl loss.
The Patriots had made moves this offseason to support quarterback Drake Maye following a tough playoff run. Darnold’s injury has left Seattle’s offensive plans uncertain for the season ahead. Seattle went on to defeat New England 13-10 after Lock led a fourth-quarter comeback. Darnold is expected to undergo additional testing on his injured hip.
IMAGE: Seattle Seahawks Super Bowl LX parade – 15 (Sam Darnold) SounderBruce CC4