Seahawks expect QB Sam Darnold to be back at practice this week

Seattle Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald expects Sam Darnold to return to practice this week, but the quarterback's status for this weekend's game against the Washington Commanders remains uncertain.

Darnold sustained a glute injury on the first series of Seattle's season opener against the New England Patriots. Drew Lock took over and helped the Seahawks to a 13-10 victory, then started Sunday's 31-7 victory over the Arizona Cardinals.

There was no timeline announced for Darnold's return, but it appeared he could be back soon.

“Right now, the plan is for him to be out there in some capacity and we’ll go from there,” Macdonald said Monday. “How much? We’ll see from here to Wednesday on what that number is but right now that’s the goal.”

Lock completed 19 of 26 passes for 235 yards and three touchdowns — all to Jaxon Smith-Njigba — against the Cardinals.

As of Monday, the Seahawks hadn't determined how much work Darnold would get in practice ahead of the game at Washington.

“Obviously this week is a little bit different with Sam’s situation being a little more up in the air going throughout the week,” Macdonald said. “So this is a little different approach in terms of our process about how we’ll handle our preparation throughout the week.”

In the opener, Lock went 16 of 22 for 187 yards and a touchdown, also to Smith-Njigba. Lock has not committed a turnover.

Macdonald said the transition to Lock has been smooth. The 29-year-old has mostly served as a backup since 2021 and saw little action last season as Darnold led Seattle to the Super Bowl title.

“I didn’t sense much difference in the attitude or the emotion of the team last week. Which is a tremendous compliment to Drew. The things he’s been able to do, day-in and day-out, the types of practices and type of football he’s played out on the practice field throughout training camp, throughout his opportunities in the preseason, I sense a lot of confidence in what he brings to the table,” Macdonald said.

What’s working

While the connection between Lock and Smith-Njigba has sparked the offense, Seattle's defense has remained its biggest strength.

Seattle shut down Arizona's run game, with rookie Jeremiyah Love managing just 29 yards on nine carries, and pressured quarterback Jacoby Brissett, who finished 17 of 28 for 95 yards and a touchdown. The Cardinals were held to 151 yards of total offense. The Seahawks have never lost when holding an opponent to 151 yards or fewer.

What needs help

The Seahawks' tight end play could use a boost. AJ Barner had one catch for 8 yards and ran for a 1-yard touchdown. Veteran Eric Saubert had a catch for a loss of 10 yards.

Stock up

Emanuel Wilson gained 92 yards on 21 carries, a 4.4-yard average. He was especially effective in the second half, with 15 carries for 71 yards.

Injuries

DL Brandon Pili suffered a concussion against the Cardinals. RB Jadarian Price left in the second half with a chest injury, but X-rays were negative. Price ran for 52 yards on 13 carries before he was hurt.

Key number

12 — Seattle's current winning streak, including playoffs. That's the longest in franchise history.

Next steps

The Seahawks visit the Commanders and backup quarterback Marcus Mariota. Jayden Daniels is out with an elbow injury.

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