Darnold was back at practice as he ramps up a potential return, but will that come in Week 3?
Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold is fighting to return as soon as possible as he recovers from a glute injury sustained in Week 1.
Lasting just five plays against the New England Patriots, we haven't seen Darnold since, but this week, he returned to the practice field, albeit in a limited capacity as the Seahawks aim to ramp him up.
With the Washington Commanders next on the road, head coach Mike Macdonald said the team wants to know Darnold's availability by Friday, likely before they fly out to Washington.
But the veteran quarterback has to get through practice this week with no issues before his return can even be a conversation.
So, how is Sam?
"Feeling good," Darnold said. "I think for me, especially during this week, just taking it day by day, continuing to balance the reps, and doing everything I need to get ready."
Now, to "get ready" might hint that No. 14 is edging closer to playing against the Commanders, but we all know there is still a lot of water to go under the bridge.
Drew Lock is still well and truly in the frame to make his second start of the season against the Commanders, but is Darnold pushing to play on Sunday?
"I'm really striving for that, but again, I'm just taking it day by day, also, don't want to jinx anything," Darnold added.
So, there does seem to be some air of positivity surrounding Darnold and his ability to miss only one week, but as we know, teams do like to be cautious, especially with quarterbacks.
In truth, there is zero reason to rush Darnold back, especially this week being a road game, as the timeline is far shorter than if Seattle were at home.
But all the markers appear to be pointing towards Darnold returning sooner rather than later. I just wonder if sooner means Week 4, not Week 3, as the Seahawks have started the year perfectly with Lock at quarterback.
Maybe another week of rest and recovery could be what is in store for Sam.
But if he had his way, he'd be playing in Washington.
