NFLSep 25
Sam Darnold Returns for Seahawks as Injuries Reshape Safety Group
Darnold will start against Washington on Sunday, while Seattle must replace injured safeties Julian Love and Ty Okada.
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Darnold cleared to lead Seattle
Sam Darnold will return to the starting lineup Sunday against the Washington Commanders after a glute injury kept him out for most of Seattle’s opening two games. The Seahawks quarterback was limited Wednesday before completing full practices Thursday and Friday. Coach Mike Macdonald expressed confidence in Darnold’s readiness following his work during the week. Darnold was injured on the fifth play of the season-opening victory over the New England Patriots. He initially worried about potentially serious consequences for his season and career, but his recovery accelerated. Drew Lock helped keep Seattle unbeaten, leading a 31-7 victory over the Arizona Cardinals that moved the defending Super Bowl champions to 2-0.
Finley gets his opportunity
Seattle will be without starting safeties Julian Love and Ty Okada. Love missed practice Thursday and Friday after developing calf tightness, and Macdonald could not offer a firm timetable for his return. Okada remains sidelined by a hamstring injury. AJ Finley will replace Love for his first NFL start. Finley joined Seattle through a waiver claim in November 2024 and missed all of last season after tearing an ACL during training camp. Rodney Thomas II will continue filling in for Okada. Nick Emmanwori also appears set for an expanded role after full participation throughout the practice week. He played nine snaps last week in his return from July ankle surgery.
Price ready; Pili questionable
Rookie running back Jadarian Price carries no game designation after returning to full participation Friday following chest and shoulder issues. Backup defensive tackle Brandon Pili is questionable with concussion and neck concerns. Zach Charbonnet must remain on the physically unable to perform list for at least two more games. Seattle has not opened his 21-day practice window, though Macdonald indicated that could happen next week.
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