The Seattle Seahawks welcomed quarterback Sam Darnold back to the lineup Sunday as they faced the Washington Commanders in a Week 3 matchup at Northwest Stadium.
Darnold missed Seattle’s Week 2 victory over the Arizona Cardinals after suffering a glute injury during the season opener against the New England Patriots. He returned to full practice during the week, and Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald confirmed that he was ready to play.
The Seahawks entered the game with a 2-0 record, having opened the season with wins over New England and Arizona. Backup quarterback Drew Lock helped Seattle remain unbeaten while Darnold recovered, throwing for 235 yards and three touchdowns in the 31-7 victory over Arizona.
Darnold Back Under Center
Darnold’s return gives Seattle its starting quarterback back as the defending Super Bowl champions look to continue their strong start.
The quarterback suffered his injury on Seattle’s opening drive of the season but avoided injured reserve and worked his way back onto the practice field this week.
He immediately made an impact against Washington, connecting with wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba for a one-yard touchdown — Darnold’s first touchdown pass of the 2026 season.
Washington Without Jayden Daniels
The Commanders entered the matchup without quarterback Jayden Daniels, who suffered a dislocated left elbow in Washington’s Week 2 loss to the Dallas Cowboys. Veteran Marcus Mariota took over as Washington’s starter.
Seattle also faced some defensive absences, including starting safety Julian Love, who was ruled out with a calf injury.
With Darnold back, Smith-Njigba continuing his impressive start and Seattle’s defense looking to maintain its early-season form, the Seahawks entered Week 3 aiming to remain unbeaten.
The return of Sam Darnold adds another important chapter to Seattle’s promising start to the 2026 NFL season.
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