Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold left the team's season opener against the New England Patriots after just five snaps due to a hip injury, and was listed as questionable to return. He was sacked by Patriots linebacker Dre'Mont Jones and landed awkwardly, developing a noticeable limp that worsened as the game continued, prompting a trip to the medical tent before he headed to the locker room. His absence is significant given his central role in Seattle's recent success, including the team's Super Bowl triumph over these same Patriots the previous February.

Darnold, who enjoyed a strong 2025 season with Seattle after a career revival at Minnesota, threw for 4,048 yards, 25 touchdowns and 14 interceptions while completing 67.7% of his passes, and added five postseason touchdowns without an interception. With Darnold off the field, backup Drew Lock, who has 28 career starts and a 10-18 record, took over under centre. The Seahawks and their fans will now be hoping the injury is not serious enough to sideline their starting quarterback for an extended period.