Sam Darnold Returns to Lead Seahawks Against Commanders; Love and Okada Out

Quarterback Sam Darnold will start Sunday for the Seattle Seahawks after missing most of the first two games with a glute injury.

Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold will start Sunday’s game against the Washington Commanders. Darnold, who suffered a glute injury on the fifth play of the season opener against the New England Patriots, returned to practice as a full participant on Thursday and Friday. Coach Mike Macdonald described the quarterback's recovery as a "medical miracle" after backup Drew Lock led the team to a 31-7 victory over the Arizona Cardinals in Week 2.

While the offense regains its starter, the defending Super Bowl champions will be without both starting safeties. Julian Love was ruled out after his calf tightened up during Thursday's practice, ending a streak of three consecutive games with an interception. Ty Okada will also miss the contest due to an ongoing hamstring injury. AJ Finley, a 2023 undrafted free agent who missed the 2024 season with a torn ACL, is set to make his first career start in place of Love. Rodney Thomas II will earn his third consecutive start in Okada's absence.

Additional roster updates include defensive tackle Brandon Pili, who is listed as questionable with concussion and neck issues. Rookie running back Jadarian Price was cleared for full participation Friday following a chest and shoulder injury. Meanwhile, running back Zach Charbonnet remains on the physically unable to perform list for at least two more weeks, though the team may open his 21-day practice window next week. Safety Nick Emmanwori is expected to see an increased workload after playing nine snaps in his return from ankle surgery last week.