Sam Darnold injury update (Getty Images)
Sam Darnold’s recovery from a hip injury is moving faster than the Seahawks initially expected, keeping open the possibility of a Week 3 return. 9, but ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported that the quarterback has made enough progress to potentially practice in some capacity on Wednesday. Week 3 is still not certain, yet Darnold appears to be trending in the right direction.
Because drew Lock has also given Seattle a reason not to rush its starter back, the situation has become more interesting. Seattle had prepared for roughly a four-week absence after Darnold suffered the injury on Sept.
The Seahawks are 2-0 despite Darnold missing time, so there is no immediate need to push him into action before he is ready.
Fowler reported that the quarterback was moving “a lot better” last week, which helped set up the possibility of getting back onto the practice field. Fowler made clear that Week 3 is “isn’t a slam dunk,” but the latest signs have put the game back into consideration. Sam Darnold is trying to shorten the recovery timeline rather than simply follow the original estimate. That does not mean Darnold is ready to play. For Seattle, the timing matters.
Still, the fact that Darnold is already being discussed as a potential Week 3 option is notable. The veteran quarterback produced a clean outing against Arizona, completing 16 of 26 passes for 235 yards and three touchdowns. For now, the bigger development is that Week 3 has gone from an unlikely target to a genuine possibility. Stay updated with the latest Asian Games 2026 news , check the Asian Games medal tally and complete Asian Games schedule .
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“He’s smart, experienced, has been in the system multiple years and has the savvy and talent of a first-round pick,” a team source said. The team can afford to be patient if his hip still needs more time. A recovery that once pointed toward a longer absence now appears to have some flexibility. Drew Lock has changed the equation. That performance gives Seattle another reason to take a measured approach with Darnold. Team sources have also expressed confidence in Lock’s ability to operate the offense. Another team source added, “He can handle all the moving parts pre-snap, good confidence, prepares like a starter, throws a pretty deep ball. Lock has shown he can handle the starting role, at least for the time being. If Darnold practices Wednesday, the Seahawks will get a clearer idea of where he stands. Even then, his return will depend on how his hip responds and whether the medical staff believes he is ready for game action. Seattle can wait if necessary, but Darnold’s accelerated recovery has given the Seahawks another option. Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.