The Seattle Seahawks’ playoff plans just gained an unexpected layer of tension. Starting quarterback Sam Darnold has been added to the injury report and is now listed as questionable ahead of Saturday night’s high-stakes postseason matchup against the San Francisco 49ers.
The development surfaced Thursday afternoon, only two days before kickoff, immediately raising concern across the fanbase.
“The #Seahawks have added QB Sam Darnold (oblique) to the injury report. He’s listed as questionable,” NFL Media insider Ian Rapoport reported.
For a team preparing for one of its biggest games of the season, the timing couldn’t be more uncomfortable.
What we know about Sam Darnold’s injury
At the moment, details surrounding the injury remain limited. The Seahawks have not disclosed exactly when or how Darnold suffered the oblique issue. What is known is that he was seen jogging during practice on Thursday and did not appear to be visibly restricted in his movement.
Still, the coaching staff didn’t take chances.
Darnold was pulled from portions of practice, and backup quarterback Drew Lock received first-team reps in case Seattle needs to pivot quickly. If Darnold were unable to suit up, Lock would start the playoff game, with rookie Jalen Milroe stepping into the backup role.
That contingency plan underscores the seriousness with which the Seahawks are treating the situation. Playoff football offers no margin for error, especially at the quarterback position.
Darnold addresses the situation: “Feel like I’ll be ready to go”
Shortly after practice, Darnold spoke with reporters to calm growing speculation. His tone was composed and confident, suggesting the decision to step away from drills was more about caution than concern.
“In routes on air felt a little something in my oblique and didn’t want to push it. Wasn’t the day to push it,” Darnold explained, per the Seattle Times. “That was it. Came inside, got some rehab, and feel like I’ll be ready to go for Saturday.”
That quote is exactly what Seahawks fans wanted to hear.
The quarterback emphasized that the move was preventative, not reactive, a veteran decision to prioritize availability over toughness in a week where every rep matters. From Seattle’s perspective, that’s a reassuring sign. A serious oblique strain typically limits throwing mechanics and torso rotation, but Darnold did not indicate any concern about his ability to play.
And emotionally, this game means something to him.
Earlier in the season, Darnold openly predicted he would meet Brock Purdy and the 49ers in the playoffs. That potential showdown, once viewed as hypothetical, is now here. Missing it would be a bitter twist, both personally and professionally.
Seattle’s coaching staff will continue to monitor him closely through Friday’s practice and into game-day evaluations.
If Darnold plays, the Seahawks maintain stability, rhythm, and leadership at the most critical position. If he can’t, the burden shifts dramatically onto Drew Lock in one of the most hostile playoff environments in the NFC.
For now, the message from Darnold is simple: stay calm.
The Seahawks are preparing as if he’ll be under center. And unless there’s a setback between now and Saturday night, the expectation inside the building remains that Sam Darnold will be ready when it matters most.
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