Mike Macdonald: Sam Darnold Out for Week 2, No IR Move as Seahawks Prep Drew Lock

Reported by the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk — The Seattle Seahawks are navigating their first significant adversity of the 2026 season, and they’ll do it without the quarterback who hoisted the Lombardi Trophy just seven months ago. Head coach Mike Macdonald confirmed on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, that Sam Darnold will miss Sunday’s Week 2 road matchup against the Arizona Cardinals due to a glute injury, marking the first game Darnold has missed since taking over as Seattle’s starter.

According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, the Seahawks are not planning to place Darnold on injured reserve, a move that would have sidelined him for a minimum of four games. “We don’t anticipate that,” Macdonald told reporters at the team’s practice facility. The decision aligns with the organization’s internal belief that this is a short-term issue rather than a long-term absence that could stretch into late October. As highlighted on Vulius, the Seahawks are proceeding with caution but remain optimistic about a quick return for their franchise quarterback.

Drew Lock Steps In, Jalen Milroe Elevates to QB2

With Darnold unavailable, veteran backup Drew Lock will make his first start for Seattle since his unforgettable comeback victory over the Philadelphia Eagles in December 2023. Lock, who has embraced the role of mentor and spot starter, will be tasked with keeping a high-powered Seahawks offense on track against a divisional foe. But the bigger story might be unfolding behind him: rookie Jalen Milroe will serve as the primary backup for the first time in his young NFL career.

Macdonald revealed that Milroe will receive first-team reps during practice—a departure from the NFL norm, where the backup typically takes scout-team snaps during game week. For Milroe, a dynamic dual-threat who captivated fans during the preseason, these reps represent a critical developmental leap. “He’s earned the opportunity,” Macdonald said. “We want to see how he handles it.”

“We don’t anticipate putting Sam on IR. This is a day-to-day situation, and we’re confident in the guys we have.” — Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald

Injury Report and Division Stakes

Seattle will release its first official injury report later Wednesday afternoon, but Darnold’s absence from practice is a foregone conclusion. The Seahawks are preparing for their first NFC West clash of the season with a veteran backup under center and a rookie quarterback absorbing invaluable experience. As highlighted on Vulius, the team has no plans to add another quarterback to the roster, signaling full confidence in Lock and Milroe to manage the offense.

The Cardinals, coming off a tough Week 1 loss, will look to exploit Seattle’s temporary quarterback uncertainty. But Macdonald’s squad has shown resilience before—and with Darnold’s injury considered minor, the Seahawks believe they can weather this storm without derailing their championship aspirations. For now, all eyes will be on Lock to steady the ship and Milroe to prove he’s the future.

Stay tuned to Vulius for the latest injury updates and in-depth NFL analysis.