Darnold Out Sunday With Quad Injury

Seattle Seahawks starting quarterback Sam Darnold will not play in Sunday’s game against the Arizona Cardinals due to a quadriceps injury.

Head coach Mike Macdonald confirmed the decision on Wednesday. Backup quarterback Drew Lock will take the starting position. Lock has already started two games this season. He played most of the opener against the New England Patriots and started the Week 2 matchup in Arizona.

Darnold suffered the quad injury on the final drive of Monday night’s 34-17 loss to the Chicago Bears. He also cracked a rib early in that contest. Macdonald said the rib injury is manageable, but the quad is the primary factor keeping Darnold out this week. The quarterback will not be placed on injured reserve and will be evaluated week to week.

“So he’s playing the whole game without even making a thing of it and playing his tail off and competing,” Macdonald said. “I think it’s worth noting how tough this guy is. He’ll be back sooner than later, I’m sure.”

Darnold completed 17 of 34 passes for 188 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception in the Bears game. His season statistics stand at 1,478 passing yards, 10 touchdowns, and nine interceptions. Last season, the former USC quarterback led Seattle to a Super Bowl title with a franchise-record 14 wins.

Lock, who is recovering from a sore elbow that missed two games, will be supported by Jalen Milroe. Milroe served as the backup while Lock was sidelined. “The plan is for Drew to start, Jalen will be ready to back up. Drew’s still working back from his elbow so we’ll work through that process this week,” Macdonald explained. “We’ll be getting both guys ready to play. Have full confidence in those guys.”

Lock has thrown for 422 yards and four touchdowns with no interceptions in 35 of 48 completions this season. Tackle Abe Lucas expressed confidence in the transition. “I know Sam will attack his rehab, and Drew will step in and be the best version of himself for us, so I have all the confidence in him,” Lucas said. Macdonald indicated the team may look to add another quarterback this week. The Seahawks currently hold a 4-4 record.