Seahawks describe Sam Darnold's injury as unique soft-tissue issue, short-term outlook

The Seahawks have a clearer — if unusual — picture of Sam Darnold's injury. Per a team spokesperson, the quarterback is dealing with a "very unique" soft-tissue injury, his hip joint is unaffected, and while there is no firm timeline for his return, it is considered a short-term issue.

That update, relayed by ESPN's Brady Henderson, was the most specific yet on the injury that knocked Darnold out of the season-opening win over New England — an injury initially feared to be a hip problem. A day earlier, coach Mike Macdonald had already shared optimism that the Pro Bowl passer was not dealing with a long-term issue, and Monday's characterization backed that up.

Darnold was at team headquarters Monday but was not on the field for the open portion of practice, per Henderson. The Seahawks do not release an injury report until Wednesday, and Macdonald is not scheduled to speak until then. Seattle's next game comes on the road, Sunday at Arizona, giving the quarterback a full week of recovery before the NFC West date with the Cardinals.