Blog · Week 9 · November 4, 2026
Sam Darnold injury update: will he play in Week 9? Fantasy impact
Sam Darnold will not play in Week 9 after being officially ruled out due to a quadriceps injury, leaving his status on a week-to-week basis. Drew Lock is set to take over as the starting quarterback for Seattle.
Injury report and latest updates on Sam Darnold
The 29-year-old quarterback with 8 years of experience has been sidelined for Sunday's matchup due to a quad injury. The coaching staff announced that he will miss this week's game against Arizona, with an estimated return date projected for November 15, 2026. In his absence, backup Drew Lock will step in to run the offense, though reports indicate Lock has also been dealing with a minor elbow issue.
2026 season stats and recent fantasy performances
Through the 2026 season, Sam Darnold has appeared in 7 games, totaling 101.3 PPR fantasy points with an average of 14.5 per contest. His recent performances showed steady output: in Week 5 against SF he posted 10.3 PPR points with 195 passing yards, 1 touchdown, and 2 interceptions; in Week 6 at DEN he recorded 13 points with 278 yards and 2 picks; in Week 7 versus KC he delivered 15 points with 257 yards and 1 score; and in Week 8 against CHI he hit his recent peak with 18.5 PPR points behind 188 passing yards and 2 touchdowns.
Week 9 matchup analysis and model projections
For Week 9, Seattle faces a highly favorable spot against ARI, labeled as a MATCHUP FÁCIL. The Cardinals defense surrenders an average of 22.3 fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks, ranking as the number 2 defense out of 32 in most points allowed to the position. Despite this great matchup, the internal model projects exactly 15 fantasy points across PPR, Half, and Standard formats, slotting him as the QB24 of the week.
Fantasy advice
SIT · The clear fantasy football recommendation for PPR, Half PPR, and Standard leagues is to SIT Sam Darnold in Week 9 since he is ruled out with a quad injury. Do not burn waiver wire capital on him right now. If you have an open spot on your bench, you can hold onto him as a stash, but you must find an alternative starting quarterback in your fantasy lineups for this slate of games.
Projection from the FX Model, Fantasy Expertos' own system.
FAQ
Is Sam Darnold playing in Week 9?
No, Sam Darnold has been ruled out for Week 9 due to a quadriceps injury.
Who is starting at quarterback for Seattle?
Drew Lock will take over the starting quarterback duties for the Seahawks.
What is Sam Darnold's estimated return date?
His estimated return date is currently projected for November 15, 2026.