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Darnold sustained the injury after being sacked from behind by former Seahawks outside linebacker Dre'Mont Jones on a third-down play. The quarterback appeared to land on his right knee during the collision. Following an initial evaluation in the medical tent, Darnold was observed limping toward the locker room as his teammates prepared for their second offensive possession. While he was initially listed as questionable to return, the team later confirmed he would be out for the rest of the game.
Backup Drew Lock Steps In As Patriots Take Control
With Darnold sidelined, veteran backup Drew Lock took over the offensive duties. Lock, 29, who holds a 10-18 record as a starter over his seven-year NFL career, completed six of his first eight passing attempts for 51 yards. His efforts were hampered by early offensive struggles, as the Seahawks committed four penalties in the first two quarters, including an offside call that nullified a fourth-and-1 attempt involving tight end AJ Barner.
The Patriots capitalized on the momentum, establishing a 7-0 lead in the second quarter when quarterback Drake Maye connected with rookie tight end Eli Raridon for a 2-yard touchdown. The scoring drive was set up by a pass interference penalty against Seahawks cornerback Josh Jobe. New England extended their advantage to 10-0 in the third quarter following a 50-yard field goal from Andy Borregales.
Jalen Milroe was designated as Seattle's emergency third quarterback for the matchup, remaining inactive but suited up in the event of further injuries to the active roster. The game serves as a rematch of Seattle's victory over New England in Super Bowl LX. Darnold, who earned his second consecutive Pro Bowl selection last season, entered the game following a historic campaign where he became the first quarterback in NFL history to win 14 regular-season games in back-to-back years with different teams.
