As kickoff creeps closer for one of the most anticipated playoff clashes of the weekend, anxiety has been swirling around Seattle — and it all centers on the health of their quarterback.
With the San Francisco 49ers coming to town, questions about Sam Darnold’s availability have become the biggest storyline surrounding the Seahawks.
Injury Concerns Surface Late in the Week
The worry began Thursday afternoon when Seattle quietly added Darnold to the injury report.
Not long after, the team labeled him as questionable for Saturday night’s showdown at Lumen Field.
The timing alone was enough to put fans on edge, especially with the stakes as high as they are in the postseason.
Darnold Hasn’t Thrown Since Thursday
As the hours passed, more concerning details emerged.
It has now been revealed that Darnold hasn’t thrown a football since Thursday after suffering an oblique injury during practice.
That revelation only heightened fears about whether the Seahawks’ offensive leader would be able to suit up in time.
Seahawks Still Expect Darnold to Start
Despite the uncertainty, optimism remains inside the organization.
NFL insider Adam Schefter reported that Seattle still believes Darnold will be ready to take the field against San Francisco.
While nothing has been officially confirmed, the expectation is that he’ll get the start if he clears final checks.
Drew Lock Prepares as the Backup Plan
Behind the scenes, Seattle hasn’t left anything to chance.
Backup quarterback Drew Lock has been handling the bulk of practice reps over the past two days and is fully prepared if Darnold can’t go.
The coaching staff appears confident that Lock can step in seamlessly if called upon.
Mike Macdonald Shares an Optimistic Update
Head coach Mike Macdonald struck a hopeful tone when addressing the media on Friday.
He echoed Darnold’s own confidence and explained why the team is proceeding cautiously.
Macdonald said the quarterback is officially listed as questionable, but stressed that the Seahawks feel encouraged about his progress.
The plan, he explained, is to follow all protocols carefully before testing Darnold again and making a final call closer to game time.
Confidence in Lock If Needed
Macdonald also made it clear that Seattle is comfortable with its contingency plan.
If Darnold isn’t able to play — or can’t finish the game — Lock is ready.
According to the coach, that readiness is exactly why Lock remains on the roster, and his preparation throughout the week has reinforced that trust.
Darnold’s Breakout Season in Seattle
The concern is understandable given how important Darnold has been to Seattle’s success.
He led the Seahawks to the top of the NFC West with a dominant 14–3 regular-season record.
In his first year with the team, the 28-year-old threw for 4,048 yards, delivered 25 touchdowns, and recorded 14 interceptions.
That performance earned him a second consecutive Pro Bowl selection and cemented his role as the engine of Seattle’s offense.
All Eyes on Saturday Night
The stage is set for a high-stakes battle between the 14–3 Seahawks and the 12–5 49ers, with kickoff scheduled for 8 p.m. EST.
Whether Sam Darnold takes the first snap or Drew Lock steps into the spotlight, one thing is certain — Seattle’s playoff journey hangs on a decision that won’t be finalized until the very last moment.
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