While the injury will keep him out of action for the immediate future, head coach
Recovery Timeline and Backup Contingency
Despite the optimistic medical report, sources indicate that the Seahawks are preparing to be without their starting quarterback for the game in Arizona on September 20. Reports suggest that the team feels they have "dodged a bullet" regarding the severity of the injury, and there is an expectation that Darnold will return to the field sooner rather than later. The Seahawks are currently scheduled to face the Washington Commanders in Week 3 on September 27.
Darnold reportedly spent the night in the hospital following the game due to significant discomfort. Macdonald acknowledged the difficult nature of the injury, noting that it has not been an easy period for the quarterback. Following Darnold's departure on Wednesday, backup
Regarding the immediate future of the quarterback position, Macdonald indicated that he anticipates Lock will start against the Cardinals, though he noted that no official final decision has been communicated yet. Lock, 29, returned to the Seahawks in 2025 after previously serving as a backup in Seattle during the 2022 and 2023 seasons. Throughout his career, which began as a second-round pick in 2019, Lock holds a 10-18 record as a starter. Last season, he made five appearances but attempted only three passes, as Darnold started every game and earned his second consecutive Pro Bowl selection.
