SEATTLE –The Arizona Cardinals have an opportunity to take advantage of an unexpected quarterback change, but Seattle's backup situation comes with a warning. Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold has been ruled out of Sunday's matchup against Arizona because of a quad injury, coach Mike Macdonald announced Wednesday. Darnold reportedly suffered the injury late in Monday night's loss to the Chicago Bears after previously cracking a rib during the game.
Sep 25, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona defensive tackle Calais Campbell (93) tackles Seattle quarterback Darnold (14) in the first half at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
With Darnold sidelined, Drew Lock is expected to take over under center, assuming he is healthy enough to play through an elbow injury of his own. On paper, the change appears to benefit Arizona. Losing a starting quarterback creates uncertainty, particularly when the replacement is dealing with an injury. However, the Cardinals cannot afford to overlook Lock's previous performance against them. Lock started earlier this season when Seattle defeated Arizona 31-7 at State Farm Stadium. He completed 19 of 26 passes for 235 yards, three touchdowns, and no interceptions.
That performance is precisely why Darnold's absence should not automatically make Arizona comfortable. For the Cardinals, the biggest priority must be correcting the defensive issues that allowed Lock to control the previous meeting. Generating pressure, limiting explosive plays, and forcing Seattle into uncomfortable passing situations will be critical. There is also a psychological component. Lock enters this matchup knowing he has already beaten Arizona convincingly, while the Cardinals have an opportunity to prove that the previous result does not define their season.
Darnold's injury changes Seattle's preparation, but it does not guarantee a favorable outcome for Arizona. The Cardinals must treat this as an opportunity, not a gift. If they cannot take advantage of a backup quarterback situation, questions about their defensive consistency will only grow louder. Arizona has a chance to change the narrative, but Drew Lock has already shown he can make the Cardinals pay.
