Seahawks to Start QB Drew Lock vs. Raiders, Giving Sam Darnold More Time to Recover

The Seattle Seahawks plan to start quarterback Drew Lock against the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday, giving Sam Darnold another week to recover from his injuries. Head coach Mike Macdonald confirmed the decision Monday during an appearance on Seattle Sports 710, with the team’s Week 11 bye providing additional recovery time for Darnold.

Lock is also dealing with an injury after suffering an oblique issue during Sunday’s 17-3 victory over the Arizona Cardinals. However, Seattle believes the problem is manageable, and the quarterback is expected to prepare for the upcoming game.

Drew Lock to Start as Sam Darnold Continues Injury Recovery

Macdonald’s decision means Lock will remain under center for Sunday’s matchup against the Raiders. The Seahawks are prioritising Darnold’s recovery after the quarterback suffered a quad injury and a cracked rib during Seattle’s Week 8 Monday night defeat to the Chicago Bears.

Rather than rushing Darnold back into action, the team will give him another week to recover before entering its Week 11 bye. The additional time could help the quarterback get closer to full fitness before Seattle resumes its schedule.

Lock’s availability is also being monitored after he experienced an oblique injury in the third quarter against Arizona. Despite the issue, Macdonald indicated that the team believes it can manage the injury throughout the week.

Seahawks Confident Drew Lock Can Manage Oblique Injury

Lock suffered the oblique injury during Sunday’s 17-3 win over the Cardinals but remained confident after the game that he could play against Las Vegas if required.

Macdonald provided a positive assessment on Monday, suggesting that the injury was not expected to prevent Lock from preparing for the Raiders matchup.

The Seahawks will continue monitoring his condition during the week, but their current plan is to give him the starting role while Darnold remains sidelined.

Drew Lock Maintains Seahawks’ Offensive Production

Seattle’s offensive production has remained steady with Lock replacing Darnold, despite the quarterback changes caused by injuries this season.

Lock delivered a solid performance against Arizona, completing 19 of 28 passes for 175 yards and one touchdown in the Seahawks’ 17-3 victory.

More importantly, he has avoided turnovers while filling in for Darnold. Across two full games and most of a third this season, Lock has not thrown an interception or lost a fumble, while Seattle has won all three games in which he has stepped in.

His performances have given the Seahawks confidence in keeping him as the starter for another week rather than accelerating Darnold’s return.

Sam Darnold’s Injuries Continue to Affect Seahawks’ Quarterback Plans

Darnold’s injury situation has been a concern for Seattle since the Week 8 Monday night loss to Chicago. The quarterback suffered both a quad injury and a cracked rib in that game, forcing the Seahawks to rely on Lock during his absence.

The upcoming game against the Raiders will provide another opportunity for Darnold to focus on rehabilitation without the pressure of returning immediately. Seattle’s Week 11 bye follows the matchup, potentially giving him further time to recover.

For now, the Seahawks appear comfortable with Lock leading the offense. His recent results have helped the team maintain momentum despite losing its starting quarterback.

Seahawks Prepare for Raiders Matchup Before Week 11 Bye

The Seahawks will host the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday with Lock expected to start at quarterback. The matchup comes after Seattle’s convincing 17-3 victory over Arizona, a result that continued the team’s winning run with Lock filling in for Darnold.

The team’s immediate focus will be ensuring Lock is healthy enough to play while allowing Darnold the time he needs to recover from his quad and rib injuries.

With the Week 11 bye approaching, Seattle has an opportunity to manage its quarterback situation carefully. If Lock remains available and continues his recent form, the Seahawks can maintain their current offensive approach without rushing Darnold back onto the field.

ESPN’s Brady Henderson contributed to this report.