Quarterback Sam Darnold is set to return to the game for the Seattle Seahawks this Sunday against the Washington Commanders after a gluteal injury, head coach Mike Macdonald announced. Darnold returned to practice on Wednesday and has been cleared to play following a swift recovery.
The Injury and Recovery Timeline
Darnold sustained the injury during the opening drive of Seattle’s season opener against the New England Patriots. Despite losing their starting quarterback early, the Seahawks managed a 13-10 victory behind Drew Lock. Macdonald confirmed the team’s confidence in Darnold’s readiness. “Sam is ready,” Macdonald said. “He did an excellent job to recover.” Darnold did not miss a single game last season, during which he threw for 4,048 yards with 25 touchdown passes and 14 interceptions while helping the franchise set a team record with 14 regular-season wins.
Drew Lock’s Steady Relief
In Darnold’s absence, Lock stepped in to direct the offense through a pair of early-season matchups. Lock started under center last Sunday as the Seahawks rolled to a 31-7 victory over the Arizona Cardinals. Over his two appearances, Lock accumulated 422 passing yards and four touchdown passes, all of which were hauled in by Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Darnold expressed appreciation for his teammate’s performance during the layoff. “I wasn’t surprised that Drew played as well as he did,” Darnold said. “You want to have that kind of guy-plus in a team. I’m happy for him.”
Standings Context Heading into Sunday
Sunday’s matchup at Washington presents an opportunity for Seattle to build momentum as one of eight clubs currently holding a 2-0 record. Meanwhile, the Commanders enter the contest looking to secure their first victory of the young campaign, sitting among seven teams at 0-2.
