Sam Darnold enters the 2026 regular season as the Seattle Seahawks' starting quarterback following a 2025 campaign that produced 4,048 passing yards and a Super Bowl title. In Week 1 against the Patriots, he managed just 13 yards before exiting with a hip muscle strain that ruled out a fracture on MRI but left his Week 2 status at Arizona in doubt, with Drew Lock expected to start. The injury occurred on a sack during the opening drive, and while initial reports indicate no consideration for injured reserve and a potentially short absence, the extent remains fluid pending further evaluation. Seahawks offensive continuity under new coordinator Brian Fleury and a supporting cast featuring established weapons provide a foundation for volume if Darnold returns quickly and maintains prior efficiency levels around 8.5 yards per attempt. Schedule factors, including primetime matchups and divisional games, will influence pass attempts alongside run-heavy tendencies and defensive strength.