Sam Darnold, our starting quarterback, was ruled out for the rest of Wednesday’s season opener against the New England Patriots after suffering a hip injury on the very first play of the game. You read that right: the *very first snap* of the 2026 season for our beloved Seahawks, and our guy is on the sideline. Talk about a gut punch to kick off the year for the Emerald City. The collective groan from the 12s could probably be heard all the way across Puget Sound.
The First Half Dud and Darnold’s Exit
The immediate impact on the field was undeniable. The first half against the Patriots, which ended with them up 7-0, was a total dud. We weren’t necessarily expecting a high-scoring shootout, given the quality defenses both teams brought to Lumen Field. Our defensive coordinator, Mike Macdonald, definitely had our guys ready to play tough, keeping the Patriots from running wild. But with Darnold going down so early, the entire offensive rhythm just felt off. It felt like we were collectively holding our breath with every snap, trying to figure out how to generate some momentum. That opening drive felt like a lifetime ago even before the first quarter was over, leaving us all just waiting for *something* to spark.
Fantasy Frustration Hits Hard
Beyond the real-time drama on the field, if you were tracking your fantasy lineup, whether it was for the Patriots or the Seahawks, you were probably feeling that infamous ‘c’mon, do something’ meme in real time. Fantasy enthusiasts everywhere were left feeling totally disgruntled on social media about the lack of action. Players like A.J. Brown, Romeo Doubs, Rhamondre Stevenson, and Jadarian Price, who many had high hopes for in their weekly matchups, had super limited touches and usage in that sluggish first half. It certainly wasn’t the offensive explosion anyone wanted for their fantasy points. To make matters worse for the Patriots, and any fantasy managers counting on him, A.J. Brown then left the game himself in the third quarter with an ankle injury. Some nights just feel like a scramble for yards and good news, don’t they?
Losing your starting quarterback on the very first play of the season is a brutal blow, no two ways about it. This early in the regular season, you’re trying to establish rhythm, identity, and start building that momentum. Now, our coaching staff, led by HC Mike Macdonald and OC Brian Fleury, has to regroup fast. We need to see what the updates are on Darnold’s hip, and whoever steps in under center has to be ready for the monumental challenge of leading this team forward. The 12s at Lumen Field and across the PNW are already looking ahead to the next game, ready to bring the energy and support our Hawks, no matter what. This team has heart, and we’ll need every ounce of it to bounce back from this opening night shocker. It’s a long season, and we know our team will fight, but man, what an uphill climb to start.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Bleacher Report.
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