News - Darnold Set to Return Against 49ers Despite Injury Concerns

Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold is set to lead his team against the San Francisco 49ers on Saturday, despite a late appearance on the injury report due to an oblique strain. This situation arose after Darnold stepped out of practice on Thursday upon feeling discomfort in his left oblique during a routine throwing session. The Seahawks' star quarterback was subsequently marked as limited and questionable for the forthcoming Divisional Round clash. However, optimism remains high within the team and from Darnold himself about his participation, which is crucial as the Seahawks, who are the NFC's top seed, aim to advance to the next round. Addressing the media, Darnold explained that the injury occurred when he felt a twinge during a non-contact drill, prompting him to seek immediate treatment to avoid escalation. He reassured fans by expressing his confidence in being 'fit to play,' rating his likelihood of missing the game as 'extremely low, almost non-existent.' This is the first instance Darnold has encountered such an injury, but he is determined to manage it through rigorous rehabilitation before game day. In a strategic move, backup quarterback Drew Lock took first-team reps during Thursday's practice as a precaution, with rookie Jalen Milroe standing by as quarterback three. On the roster front, Darnold is currently the only offensive starter flagged for game readiness, though depth components like Elijah Arroyo, Chazz Surratt, and Josh Jones have been ruled out. Importantly for the Seahawks, left tackle Charles Cross and safety Coby Bryant, both of whom have been sidelined by multi-game absences, are anticipated to make their returns, bolstering the team's core against San Francisco's formidable defense, known for its blitzing prowess. Conversely, the 49ers will be missing linebacker Fred Warner and safety Ji’Ayir Brown, slightly altering the defense's dynamics. This crucial match also acts as a sequel to Seattle's pivotal Week 18 victory at Levi's Stadium—a win that secured both the NFC West title and the coveted top playoff seed. Darnold emphasized the playoff-like intensity witnessed during that matchup and suggested that familiar advantages, such as the home field's favorable acoustics for play calling, would be instrumental again. Completing the regular season on a high with a record of 14-3, Darnold's season includes impressive stats: a 67.7% completion rate, over 4,000 yards, 25 touchdowns, and his second Pro Bowl selection. Despite limited playoff exposure—a single start ending in defeat last year—Darnold echoed coach Mike Macdonald’s advice to maintain normalcy in preparation amidst heightened stakes. As the showdown nears, the team’s strategy is clear: Darnold needs to be ready to lead the offense, with the NFC Championship within reach. Although Lock remains a capable backup option, his minimal playtime this season underscores the necessity of Darnold's leadership for the offense, which thrives on momentum and synchronization. As Lumen Field prepares for its most intense home game in years, the lingering question revolves not around Darnold’s participation, but rather the extent to which his performance might be affected, if at all, by the injury when kickoff arrives. In related NFL news, the Washington Commanders have appointed D.J. Williams as their new quarterbacks coach, adjusting coaching strategies for the upcoming season challenges.