Seattle – The Seattle Seahawks confirmed on Wednesday that starting quarterback Sam Darnold will miss the Week 9 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals due to a quad injury. Coach Mike Macdonald explained that while the injury does not require placing Darnold on injured reserve, it is serious enough to keep him out for the upcoming game.
Backup quarterback Drew Lock steps in
Macdonald announced that veteran backup Drew Lock will take the field in Darnold’s place, with rookie Jalen Milroe listed as the second‑string option. Lock, who has been recovering from an elbow injury, is not yet at full health, but the coaching staff believes he is ready to manage the offense. “He’s able to throw,” Macdonald said. “How much, we’re working through that right now. He’s going to throw the ball throughout the week, but we’re just going to manage it. He’s not going to take 8,000 throws.”
The Seahawks have struggled recently, falling 34‑17 to the Chicago Bears in a game that featured three sacks on Darnold and left him with a cracked rib. Despite that setback, Macdonald praised Darnold’s toughness, saying, “He’s tough as nails. He’ll be back sooner rather than later, I’m sure.”
Lock’s previous performance against Arizona
If all goes as planned, this will be Lock’s second start of the season and his second against the Cardinals. In his first appearance on September 20, Lock led Seattle to a 31‑7 victory, throwing for 235 yards and three touchdowns. The coaching staff hopes he can replicate that success, even as they monitor his elbow recovery.
Seattle’s offensive line will also face a test against the Cardinals’ defense, which has shown the ability to pressure quarterbacks. The Seahawks will need to protect Lock and limit the number of throws, as Macdonald emphasized a cautious approach to avoid overtaxing the backup’s arm.
Implications for the Seahawks’ season
The Seahawks entered the season as defending Super Bowl champions, but injuries at the quarterback position have raised concerns about consistency and depth. With Darnold unavailable, the team’s ability to adapt will be critical as they aim to maintain a winning record and secure a playoff berth.
Fans can expect a competitive game on Sunday, with the Seahawks looking to capitalize on Lock’s prior success against Arizona while managing his health. The outcome will provide insight into the team’s resilience and depth heading into the second half of the season.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
