The Seattle Seahawks' playoff preparations hit a sudden snag on Thursday when Pro Bowl quarterback Sam Darnold injured his left oblique during practice, casting uncertainty over Saturday's NFC Divisional Round showdown with the San Francisco 49ers. Despite being added to the injury report and listed as questionable, Darnold delivered an optimistic message to reporters: "Very low percentage," he said of the chance he might not play. "Probably closer to zero."
How the Injury Happened: Darnold's Thursday Practice Setback
Darnold felt a twinge in his oblique during the routes-on-air portion of Thursday's practice, a non-contact drill where quarterbacks throw to receivers against air. "Kind of just felt a little something on that oblique, just didn't want to push it," Darnold explained. "Wasn't the day to push it so that was it. Just came inside, got some rehab, and I feel like I'll be ready to go for Saturday." The injury is on his non-throwing side, which offers some reassurance, but oblique issues can significantly limit a quarterback's mobility and torque when throwing.
Timeline: From Thursday Injury to Saturday's Game Decision
The sequence of events unfolded rapidly. On Thursday morning, Darnold participated in practice normally before feeling the oblique discomfort. He immediately left the field for treatment and was seen using a Theragun on his side. The Seahawks later added him to the injury report as a limited participant with an oblique injury. By Thursday afternoon, Darnold expressed strong confidence he would play. On Friday, head coach Mike Macdonald echoed that optimism, telling reporters he was "really optimistic" Darnold would be available. The team plans to test the injury Saturday morning before making a final decision.
Why This Injury Matters: Playoff Implications for Seattle
Darnold's health is critical to Seattle's Super Bowl aspirations. The quarterback is coming off his second consecutive Pro Bowl season, having completed 67.7% of his passes for 4,048 yards and 25 touchdowns while leading the Seahawks to a 14-3 record and the NFC's top seed. His performance in Week 18 against these same 49ers—a victory that secured the NFC West title—demonstrated his importance to the offense. An oblique injury could limit his ability to drive the ball downfield and evade San Francisco's formidable pass rush, potentially altering Seattle's game plan.
Backup Plan: Drew Lock Ready if Needed
While optimism prevails, the Seahawks have prepared contingency plans. Veteran backup Drew Lock took first-team reps on Thursday and Friday, ensuring he's ready if Darnold cannot start or leaves the game early. "Drew's ready to go, and that's why Drew's here," Macdonald said. "He's doing a great job." Lock has starting experience and led Seattle to several victories during the 2024 season when Darnold battled a chest injury. The Seahawks also have rookie third-round pick Jalen Milroe as their QB3, though he's appeared in just three NFL games.
Current Status: Latest Updates from Seahawks Headquarters
As of Friday evening, the Seahawks' injury situation extends beyond Darnold. Offensive tackle Josh Jones (knee) has been ruled out, while tight end Elijah Arroyo and linebacker Chazz Surratt won't be activated from injured reserve. However, several key players are returning: left tackle Charles Cross (knee/hamstring) and safety Coby Bryant will play after missing multiple games. Cornerback Riq Woolen, who has been managing his own oblique issue, is "ready to go," according to Macdonald. Linebacker Ernest Jones IV, who was ill earlier in the week, has recovered and practiced fully.
What Happens Next: Game Day Scenarios and Beyond
Saturday's 5:15 PM PT kickoff at Lumen Field will determine whether the Seahawks advance to the NFC Championship Game. If Darnold starts but is limited, Seattle may rely more heavily on running backs Kenneth Walker III and Zach Charbonnet and use quick-passing concepts to protect their quarterback. If Lock starts, the offense would likely become more conservative. Regardless of who plays quarterback, the Seahawks will have the advantage of a raucous home crowd—their first playoff game at Lumen Field with fans since January 2017. "We know Lumen's going to be rocking," Darnold said. "It's an important game. We don't get it twisted at all."
The Bottom Line: Key Points to Remember
Sam Darnold's oblique injury is the dominant storyline heading into Saturday's playoff clash, but all signs point to the quarterback taking the field. The Seahawks have prepared Drew Lock just in case, and coach Mike Macdonald's optimism suggests Darnold will be under center when it matters most. With home-field advantage and a mostly healthy roster elsewhere, Seattle remains positioned to challenge the 49ers for a spot in the conference title game—provided their quarterback can perform through the pain.
