The Seattle Seahawks’ Super Bowl title defence got an early scare Thursday night when quarterback Sam Darnold limped off the field after taking a sack during the opening drive against the New England Patriots at Lumen Field.
Darnold was pulled down by former Seahawks defensive lineman Dre’Mont Jones on a coverage sack on third down, bringing Seattle’s first possession to an end. The quarterback managed to walk to the sideline on his own but was clearly struggling as he made his way toward the bench.
🚨INJURY ALERT🚨
Seattle #Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold appeared to have suffered a knee injury on a sack.
Darnold started walking gingerly and then limp off the field.
THIS IS NOT GOOD… pic.twitter.com/9vlMH1EqSw
— MLFootball (@MLFootball) September 10, 2026
Sam Darnold Injury Update
The Seahawks later announced that Darnold was dealing with a hip injury and was questionable to return. He initially spoke with medical staff on the sideline before entering Seattle’s blue medical tent. After leaving the tent, Darnold was seen wearing a blue Seahawks cap and then walked away from the sideline with medical personnel for further examination.
🚨NEW: Sam Darnold seen limping after exiting the blue medical tent. He went back to the locker room.
Drew Lock replaces him at QB for the Seahawks.
— Polymarket Sports (@PolymarketSport) September 10, 2026
NBC reported that Darnold was taken to the X-ray area for additional testing. Backup quarterback Drew Lock replaced him to begin Seattle’s second offensive series. That possession also ended with a punt.
Darnold completed one of his two pass attempts before leaving the game, connecting with Jaxon Smith-Njigba for a 13-yard gain.
Seahawks vs Patriots Live Update
Live score: Seahawks 0-0 PatriotsÂ
The injury comes in an important matchup for Seattle, with the Seahawks opening their title defence against the same Patriots team they defeated 29-13 in Super Bowl LX. Seattle entered the game looking to begin the new season with another statement win, but Darnold’s early exit immediately became the biggest storyline.
New England also entered the game dealing with its own injury concerns. Running back TreVeyon Henderson was ruled out with an ankle injury before kickoff, leaving Rhamondre Stevenson to take on a bigger role in the Patriots’ backfield.
At the latest update, the game remained scoreless, with Lock taking the snaps for Seattle while Darnold underwent further medical evaluation. His status will be closely monitored as the game continues.
