NFL16 hours ago2 minute read

Seahawks Face Major Injury Blows Ahead of Cardinals Clash

Seattle ruled out six starters including QB Sam Darnold and new guard Quenton Nelson for Sunday's game against Arizona.

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Injury Crisis Hits Seattle

The Seattle Seahawks face a tough situation for Sunday's game against the Arizona Cardinals at Lumen Field. Head coach Mike Macdonald confirmed that six starters are ruled out for the matchup.

Quarterback Sam Darnold will not play due to a quad injury. He also suffered a cracked rib early in Monday's loss to the Chicago Bears. Drew Lock will start at quarterback despite dealing with a right elbow injury. Seattle has Jalen Milroe ready as backup, and they signed former UFL MVP Adrian Martinez to the practice squad. Lock previously filled in during Week 2, leading Seattle to a 31-7 win over Arizona.

Nelson Out for Knee Procedure

Left guard Quenton Nelson will miss the game as well. Only one week after Seattle acquired the All Pro guard from the Indianapolis Colts for a 2027 third round pick and a 2028 fifth round pick, he needs a minor knee procedure to clean out cartilage. Nelson played every offensive snap against Chicago, but the knee issue was aggravated.

Macdonald stated that everybody agreed it was best to address the issue now and play the long game. Nelson will not go on injured reserve and is listed as week to week. Grey Zabel moves back to left guard, while Anthony Bradford returns to the starting lineup at right guard. Josh Jones will fill in at left tackle for Charles Cross, who remains out with an ankle injury.

Additional Defensive Absences

The Seahawks are also missing key players on defense and special teams. Defensive tackle Leonard Williams is out with a stinger, and outside linebacker Uchenna Nwosu will miss the game with an ankle injury. Wide receiver and returner Rashid Shaheed is out with a knee injury.

Backup defensive tackle Brandon Pili is out with a back injury. Backup outside linebacker Connor O'Toole is listed as questionable with a foot injury.

What it means for the next game

Arizona Cardinals at Seattle Seahawks (NFL, Sun, 08 Nov): Seattle Seahawks win 77%, Arizona Cardinals win 23%; projected score Seattle Seahawks 24, Arizona Cardinals 17. Our safest pick: Over 32.5 points.

Seattle Seahawks at Las Vegas Raiders (NFL, Sun, 15 Nov): Las Vegas Raiders win 30%, Seattle Seahawks win 70%; projected score Las Vegas Raiders 19, Seattle Seahawks 25. Our safest pick: Seahawks to win.