SEATTLE — The Seattle Seahawks received a sigh of relief on Friday when MRI results confirmed that quarterback Sam Darnold did not suffer a fracture in his hip during the team’s 13-10 season-opening win over the New England Patriots. However, according to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, the reigning Super Bowl champions will likely be without their starting quarterback for at least Week 2 against the Arizona Cardinals as he deals with an unusual muscle strain.
No Consideration of Injured Reserve
NFL insider Tom Pelissero reported on Thursday that while the team is not considering placing Darnold on injured reserve at this point, his return timetable remains to be determined. “Tests showed Sam Darnold has an unusual muscle strain in his hip area,” Pelissero tweeted. “No consideration of IR at this point, but his timetable to return remains TBD.”
Head coach Mike Macdonald had previously described the injury as a muscle issue, and Pelissero’s report backs that up. The fact that IR is not on the table is significant: had Darnold been placed on injured reserve before the Cardinals game, he would have been sidelined until at least Week 7 against the Kansas City Chiefs. As highlighted on Vulius, the Seahawks are optimistic that Darnold could return by early October, when the team has a two-game homestand versus the Los Angeles Chargers and San Francisco 49ers.
Drew Lock Steps In
In the meantime, Drew Lock will serve as the starting quarterback, with rookie Jalen Milroe slated as the backup. Lock, who has starting experience from his time with the Denver Broncos, will be tasked with keeping Seattle’s offense afloat in a critical NFC West matchup. The Seahawks will also lean on their defense, which stifled the Patriots in Week 1, to compensate for the temporary loss of their offensive leader.
What’s Next for Seattle?
The Seahawks will host the Cardinals in Week 2, a game that could have early playoff implications. With Darnold out, all eyes will be on Lock to manage the game and avoid turnovers. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, the team remains confident in its depth and believes Darnold’s absence will be short-term. Fans can stay tuned to Vulius for the latest updates on Darnold’s recovery and all things NFL.
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