Additional Coverage:
- Sam Darnold injury: Seahawks QB questionable for divisional round matchup vs. 49ers with an oblique issue (cbssports.com)
Seahawks’ Star Quarterback Sam Darnold Questionable for Playoff Opener
Seattle Seahawks fans held their breath Thursday as star quarterback Sam Darnold was added to the injury report, listed as questionable for Saturday’s divisional round playoff clash against the San Francisco 49ers. Darnold reportedly sustained an oblique injury during Thursday’s practice, casting a shadow of uncertainty over the team’s postseason opener.
The 28-year-old signal-caller confirmed the injury occurred during the “routes on air” portion of practice. He explained that he felt discomfort on his left oblique and opted against pushing himself further.
“Didn’t wanna push it,” Darnold stated after practice. “Wasn’t the day to push it.
That was it. Came inside, got some rehab, and feel like I’ll be ready to go for Saturday.”
Despite the official “questionable” tag, Darnold expressed strong confidence in his ability to play, stating there’s a “very low percentage” – “probably closer to zero” – that he won’t be on the field.
Darnold has been instrumental in the Seahawks’ dominant 14-3 season under second-year coach Mike Macdonald, leading them to the NFC’s No. 1 seed. Following a Pro Bowl season with the Vikings last year, he earned his second consecutive Pro Bowl nod this season after throwing for over 4,000 yards and 25 touchdowns.
His two regular-season starts against the 49ers this year yielded mixed results, with Darnold throwing for less than 200 yards in both games and no touchdown passes, though he also avoided any interceptions while completing 73.5% of his throws.
Should Darnold be unable to play, the Seahawks would turn to veteran Drew Lock. The 29-year-old, a former second-round pick, saw limited action during the regular season, attempting just three passes.
However, Lock brings 28 career regular-season starts to the table, including 13 starts during his 2020 campaign with the Broncos. He took first-team reps during Thursday’s practice.
Seahawks Offensive Coordinator Klint Kubiak voiced confidence in Lock, noting, “Drew’s been really impressive throughout OTAs and training camp and in his role. Started a lot of football games, 28 games in the league.
Lot of confidence in Drew. Brought him here for a reason.”
While Lock prepares for any eventuality, Darnold remains steadfast in his expectation to make his second career postseason start. “We’ll attack it the next couple of days and be ready for Saturday,” he affirmed.