Sam Darnold: Injury News, Update, Stats & Backup Status (2026)
Introduction
Sam Darnold’s NFL journey has become one of the most widely followed quarterback stories of the mid-2020s. From being a top draft pick to bouncing around multiple teams and resurrecting his career, Darnold has transformed perceptions about his long-term viability as an NFL starter. At the start of 2026, Sam Darnold — now the starting quarterback for the Seattle Seahawks — is again at the center of conversation due to a latest injury concern and playoff status update. In this comprehensive article, we’ll explore his current injury news, detailed injury update, season and career stats, questions about his playing status, and depth chart implications for backups.
Latest Sam Darnold Injury News (January 2026)
Oblique Injury and Playoff Status
As of January 16, 2026, Sam Darnold has been listed as questionable for the Seattle Seahawks’ NFC Divisional Round playoff game against the San Francisco 49ers due to a left oblique injury sustained in practice earlier in the week. Despite being officially questionable, Darnold expressed confidence that he will play, stating there’s a very low chance he will be unable to suit up for the game.
His presence on the injury report caught many by surprise, as he had not appeared on official Seahawks injury listings earlier in the week. The injury occurred during a Thursday practice session when Darnold exited early as a limited participant and shifted to rehab work.
Despite the designation, Seattle coaches and opponents (like the 49ers) have downplayed the severity, indicating that preparations and game planning will proceed assuming Darnold is active, though backups remain ready just in case.
Sam Darnold Season and Career Stats
While much of the focus right now is on Darnold’s injury status, his performance on the field this season has been noteworthy.
2025 Regular Season Performance
In the 2025 regular season, Sam Darnold compiled the following stats for the Seattle Seahawks:
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Games Played: 17
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Passing Yards: 4,048
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Touchdowns: 25
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Interceptions: 14
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Completion Percentage: 67.7%
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Passer Rating: ~99.1
This marked another strong year in Darnold’s late-blooming career, highlighted by consistency and leadership in guiding Seattle to a 14-3 record and the NFC’s top seed.
Career Overview
Sam Darnold’s cumulative career stats reflect a quarterback who has grown substantially over time after early struggles:
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Total Games (Career): 100
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Passing Yards: 20,431
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Completion %: 62.3
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Touchdowns: 123
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Interceptions: 82
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Passer Rating: 86.5
These statistics encapsulate his journey from the New York Jets (who drafted him 3rd overall in 2018) through stints with the Carolina Panthers, San Francisco 49ers, Minnesota Vikings, and now the Seahawks.
His career arc tells a story of resilience — from early flashes of potential followed by inconsistency, to later seasons where he’s delivered franchise-level production and won games.
Sam Darnold’s Injury History
Understanding Darnold’s current injury situation is better contextualized by reviewing his past health availability.
Previous Minor Injuries
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In 2024, while with the Minnesota Vikings, Darnold briefly suffered a knee bruise, but MRI results showed no structural damage and he didn’t miss significant time.
Overall, Darnold’s injury history is not extensive with long absences, but multiple minor injuries have occurred over his career.
Is Sam Darnold Injured Now?
As of January 16, 2026, yes — Sam Darnold is currently listed as questionable with a left oblique issue. However, all signs from team and player communication suggest it’s not a season-ending or long-term injury, and he expects to play in the upcoming playoff matchup unless something changes at the last minute.
Seahawks backup plans remain in effect, with second-string options ready to step in if needed.
Seahawks Backup Quarterbacks and Depth Chart
In case Darnold cannot play, the Seahawks have the following alternatives behind him:
Primary Backup: Drew Lock
Veteran Drew Lock has been named the direct backup and has taken first-team reps during Darnold’s limited practices this week. Lock has NFL starting experience and provides a capable fallback.
Rookie Depth: Jalen Milroe
Rookie Jalen Milroe sits third on the depth chart, offering developmental promise but limited experience compared to Lock.
The Seahawks’ depth at quarterback reflects a mix of experience and youth, prepared for any scenario if Darnold is unavailable.
How This Injury Could Affect Seattle’s Playoff Hopes
Sam Darnold has been crucial to Seattle’s success in the 2025 season. His performance led the Seahawks to home-field advantage and a strong NFC position. If he were unavailable due to the oblique injury, the Seahawks would need to rely heavily on Lock or even Milroe to maintain momentum.
While Lock is a capable backup, his mechanics, decision making, and familiarity with play calls differ from Darnold’s, which could influence game planning. A sudden quarterback change just ahead of a playoff game is always disruptive and places pressure on the Seahawks’ offensive cohesion.
Even so, Darnold’s own comments suggest confidence in playing — an optimistic sign for Seattle fans.
Sam Darnold: Career Comeback Story
Sam Darnold’s career arc has been anything but linear. After being drafted by the New York Jets in 2018 as a highly touted prospect, he endured several difficult seasons with the Jets and Panthers before flashes of resurgence with the 49ers and Vikings.
His breakout seasons with Minnesota — including a 4,319-yard, 35-touchdown performance — re-established his value and helped earn him a lucrative free agent deal with Seattle.
In 2024 and 2025, Darnold managed to win 14 games in back-to-back seasons with different teams — a rare historical feat that parallels some of the NFL’s most notable players.
This narrative of redemption — evolving from early career doubts to respected veteran starter — has earned him renewed credibility across the league and with fans.
What Analysts Say About Darnold’s Play
Opinions on Darnold vary widely:
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Some analysts highlight his improved decision-making and ability to distribute the ball efficiently with high completion rates.
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Critics point to inconsistency late in games or uneven performances in clutch situations.
Nonetheless, his leadership and resilience in overcoming early career setbacks have reshaped his reputation among NFL observers.
Final Thoughts
As Sam Darnold navigates the latest injury concerns heading into the 2026 NFL playoffs, his status remains optimistic. He is expected to play despite the oblique issue, and the Seahawks are positioned with experienced backups if needed. His 2025 statistics underscore a productive season — and his overall career journey reflects one of persistence, growth, and reinvention.
For fans, fantasy managers, and analysts alike, staying updated on Darnold’s health and performance will be key as Seattle’s postseason unfolds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Sam Darnold injured right now?
Yes — Darnold is currently listed as questionable with an oblique injury but expects to play in the upcoming playoff game.
What is the latest injury update on Sam Darnold?
He suffered a left oblique strain at practice, was limited in practice, and is optimistic about playing despite the designation.
Who is the backup if Sam Darnold can’t play?
The primary backup is Drew Lock, with Jalen Milroe as the third-string quarterback.
What were Sam Darnold’s 2025 season stats?
He threw for 4,048 yards, 25 touchdowns, and completed 67.7% of his passes during the 2025 regular season.
Has Darnold had other injuries in his career?
Yes — including a minor knee bruise in 2024, which did not result in missed games.
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