Seahawks' Darnold avoids IR but ruled out vs. Cardinals

The Seattle Seahawks ruled out quarterback Sam Darnold for Sunday's game vs. the Arizona Cardinals due to the glute injury he suffered in Wednesday's season-opening win.

The team described it as a "very unique soft-tissue" injury on Monday. There are no plans to place Darnold on injured reserve.

Drew Lock, who stepped in for Darnold and quarterbacked the Seahawks to a 13-10 win over the New England Patriots on Wednesday, is in line to make his first start since 2024 in Darnold's absence.

Darnold's injury is in the area of his right glute. He was hurt on the fifth play of the opener when his right knee hit the turf as he was being sacked from behind. He hobbled off the field then limped into the locker room after being examined in the medical tent. The Seahawks eventually ruled Darnold out with what they announced as a hip injury.

He was taken to Harborview Medical Center for testing during the game and stayed there overnight, in part because of how much discomfort he was in.

Following the Arizona game, the reigning Super Bowl champions will visit the Washington Commanders in Week 3 then host the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 4 and the San Francisco 49ers in Week 5.