Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold has avoided a fractured hip, according to coach Mike Macdonald, though the full severity of his injury remains uncertain. Macdonald told reporters following the Seahawks' 13-10 comeback victory over the New England Patriots that a fracture has been ruled out, but additional tests are required to determine the specific nature of the injury.
Darnold sustained the injury on the fifth offensive play of the game. He was taken to Harvard U Medical Center for a CT scan, as the Seahawks' facility does not have the necessary equipment. ESPN's Ian Rapoport reported that the scan results were "mostly positive, not fully conclusive" regarding a fracture, which would have signaled a potentially extended absence.
Darnold is scheduled for an MRI on Friday. This examination will help determine the extent of any soft-tissue damage, including potential issues with the labrum or bone bruising. Such an MRI could still indicate a significant recovery period.
Drew Lock replaced Darnold in the game, completing 16 of 22 passes for 187 yards and one touchdown to Jaxon Smith-Njigba. The Seahawks rallied from a 10-0 second-half deficit to secure the win. The Patriots' struggles were compounded by three interceptions thrown by quarterback Drake Maye. Additionally, Seahawks receiver A.J. Brown suffered a high-ankle sprain during the game.