Overview
- Darnold left Seattle’s season opener just five snaps in after a sack and did not return to that game.
- Initial testing that suggested a hip problem was later reclassified as a glute tendon injury, changing treatment and recovery expectations.
- NFL Network reporter Ian Rapoport said Darnold is recovering quicker than expected and has a “pretty good chance” to resume some form of practice this week, with a Week 3 game return described as possible but a stretch and Week 4 seen as more likely.
- The Seahawks have not placed Darnold on injured reserve and named Drew Lock the short-term starter, so Lock will handle the offense while medical evaluations continue.
- Not placing Darnold on injured reserve preserves the option of an earlier return because IR would force a minimum multiweek absence, so the team’s next clear signs will be medical clearance or Darnold appearing at practice.