The Seahawks’ injury picture shifted again Friday, and this time the biggest swing was at the top of the depth chart. Sam Darnold was removed from the injury list and is set to start against the Commanders, while Julian Love landed on it after his calf tightened up.
For Seattle, that means the offense gets its quarterback back just as the defense loses one of its most important voices. Darnold missed time after injuring his glute muscle in the season opener, but head coach Mike Macdonald said the starter is ready to return.
“ Sam’s going to play. He’s ready to go; he’s done a great job.”
Love’s absence came as more of a surprise. He started and finished Seattle’s first two games, but Macdonald said the issue popped up on Friday.
“ His calf tightened up yesterday, and now he’s out, said head coach Mike Macdonald. “
“I don’t know how long it’s going to be, Macdonald said. Love will join safety Ty Okada, who has missed the last two games due to a hamstring issue.
Seattle tried to shore up the safety room by adding Rodney Thomas to the 53-man roster on Wednesday, then elevating Maxen Hook from the practice squad for Sunday’s game. Thomas started next to Love in the Seahawks’ win over the Cardinals, and with Love unavailable, rookie AJ Finley is expected to see action.
Macdonald was especially upbeat about Finley’s chance.
“It’s one of those (situations) where you’re bummed about Julian (Love). He’s had such a great start to the season.
He’s such a great player. When AJ (Finley) got the pick in training camp, I’m just thinking about the journey he’s been on over the last year and the way he’s gotten his body back and his movement, and he had a great practice today.
He’s on it now. He’s as sharp as a whip, and he’s a great communicator, ball skills, all those things.
I’m excited for him to have the opportunity.”
Finley appears positioned to start, though Macdonald stopped short of making anything official before kickoff Sunday afternoon. Nick Emmanwori is another option after making his season debut against the Cardinals, where he played nine defensive reps.
On offense, the Seahawks also got a boost from rookie Jadarian Price. He was limited to 24 offensive snaps because of a shoulder injury, but after a full week of practice, Macdonald said he’s cleared for Sunday.
“He’s taking a ton of reps. Excited to see him go play; he’s ready to go,’ said Macdonald.
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