Mike Macdonald: Seahawks’ ‘Established starters’ won’t play vs. Cowboys

August 15, 2026 - 04:22

Seattle Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald made it clear on Thursday that the team's established starters will not see the field this Saturday night against the Dallas Cowboys. That means fans should not expect quarterback Sam Darnold, wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, or any other first-team regular to take a snap beyond pregame warm-ups.

Macdonald said the decision is about preserving the roster for the regular season. He pointed out that the team has already gotten a good look at its top players in practice and in the first preseason game. The focus now shifts to evaluating the depth chart and giving younger players more opportunities to prove themselves.

The Seahawks have a few position battles still unsettled, particularly on the offensive line and in the secondary. Saturday's game will be a key test for those fringe players. Macdonald emphasized that while the scoreboard does not matter in August, individual performance and execution do.

Darnold, who signed with Seattle in the offseason, has looked sharp in joint practices. Smith-Njigba has also shown chemistry with the new quarterback. But the coaching staff feels comfortable with what they have seen. The priority is avoiding unnecessary injuries before the season opener.

The Cowboys are expected to play some of their starters for at least a series or two, but Seattle will take a more cautious approach. Macdonald said the team has a clear plan for the final preseason game next week, where some starters might get a brief tune-up. For now, the focus is on the backups and rookies fighting for a spot on the 53-man roster.