news-engine

Seattle Seahawks started their NFL title defense with a 13-10 win over the New England Patriots on Wednesday night, but the game quickly took an unexpected turn after Sam Darnold exited the game in the first quarter with a hip injury. The Seahawks were forced to adjust their offensive plan early, with Drew Lock taking over at quarterback, while their defense kept the team within reach before making decisive plays late in the fourth quarter. Coach Mike Macdonald said the Seahawks did not panic after the early setback. Seattle’s defense intercepted Patriots quarterback Drake Maye three times in the fourth quarter, helping the home side secure the win in a Super Bowl rematch at Lumen Field. The result gave Seattle a winning start to the 2026 season. It also placed renewed attention on the team’s quarterback depth after one player was called into action earlier than expected. MORE: DE Micah Parsons could return before Packers-Cowboys game Drew Lock prepared for Seahawks opportunity Lock replaced Darnold during the opening quarter and led Seattle’s late scoring drives against New England. Speaking after the game, the veteran backup quarterback spoke about his mindset, telling the NBC crew that his approach had remained the same each week, regardless of whether he expects to play. “I don’t know when my number’s going to get called,” Lock said. “I’ve done everything up to this point to be ready for moments like this.” Lock returned to Seattle in 2025 after spending the 2024 season with the New York Giants. He was Darnold’s backup during the Seahawks’ Super Bowl-winning campaign last season and entered the opener after Darnold left the field. Lock credited Seattle’s defense for creating opportunities late in the game as the Seahawks completed their comeback. Sam Darnold hip injury update after Patriots game Darnold suffered a hip injury after being sacked on Seattle’s first offensive series. He later left for the locker room and was ruled out before halftime. After the win, Macdonald said initial tests delivered encouraging news. The Seahawks were able to rule out a hip fracture, though Darnold still needs further testing. “With Sam, we got some great news back,” Macdonald said. “Let’s just say it’s good news right now.” Macdonald said it was too early to determine whether Darnold will be available for Seattle’s Week 2 game at Arizona. The Seahawks have not announced a return timeline as of this writing.