Sam Darnold Out vs. Cardinals with Glute Injury, Latest News on Timeline to Return to Seahawks

The Seattle Seahawks have ruled out quarterback Sam Darnold for Week 2's matchup against the Arizona Cardinals, though they do not intend to put him on injured reserve.

Darnold suffered what the team has described as a " very unique soft-tissue " injury to his right glute during the first series of Week 1's win over the New England Patriots.

That means Drew Lock will get the start. The veteran backup played well in relief duty in Week 1, throwing for 187 and a touchdown without any turnovers while rushing for 13 yards and taking one sack.

Jalen Milroe is currently slated to be the backup on Sunday, and head coach Mike Macdonald told reporters the plan was to stick with Lock and Milroe rather than add an external option.

Keeping Darnold off injured reserve is a good indication that the Seahawks believe the starter could return sooner rather than later. An IR stint would mean missing at least four games.

The 29-year-old Darnold had a fantastic debut season for the Seahawks in 2025, throwing for 4,048 yards, 25 touchdowns and 14 interceptions during the regular season. He was even better in the playoffs, throwing for 672 yards and five touchdowns with zero interceptions while leading the team to a Super Bowl title.

The 2026 season hasn't gotten off to an ideal start, but it doesn't sound as though his time on the sidelines will be a lengthy one.