The road to Super Bowl LX takes a dramatic turn this weekend as the NFL Divisional Round 2026 kicks off with high stakes and breaking news that could reshape the playoff landscape. The headline story coming out of the Pacific Northwest is the sudden uncertainty surrounding the NFC's top seed. Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold has been listed as questionable for Saturday night’s showdown against the San Francisco 49ers after suffering an oblique injury during a late-week practice. With the NFL Playoff Bracket 2026 narrowing down to the elite eight, fans and bettors alike are scrambling to adjust their expectations for a weekend packed with blockbuster matchups.
Sam Darnold Injury Update: Panic in Seattle?
The Seattle Seahawks secured the NFC's No. 1 seed and a crucial bye week largely behind the career-resurgent play of Sam Darnold. However, the mood at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center shifted from confident to cautious on Thursday when Darnold was added to the injury report. Sources confirm the quarterback sustained an oblique strain during individual drills, limiting his participation in the final practice session before Saturday's game.
Despite the "questionable" tag, Darnold attempted to quell fears during his media availability. "I feel really confident about going on Saturday," Darnold told reporters, characterizing the chance of him missing the game as "very low, probably closer to zero." However, oblique injuries are notoriously tricky for passers, affecting torque and velocity. If Darnold is compromised, the Seahawks' high-flying offense could struggle against a 49ers defense that just shut down the Eagles in the Wild Card round.
Seahawks vs 49ers Odds and Analysis
The betting markets reacted swiftly to the Sam Darnold injury update. While Seattle opened as strong favorites, the line has tightened. The 49ers, entering as the No. 6 seed, are looking to pull off an upset against their division rivals. This is the third meeting between these NFC West foes this season; Seattle won the Week 18 regular-season finale to clinch the top seed, but playoff football often writes a different script. Key for bettors: watch the pre-game warmups closely. If Darnold shows limited mobility, San Francisco's pass rush could feast.
Bills vs Broncos Predictions: Mile High Showdown
Before the drama unfolds in Seattle, the NFL Divisional Round schedule begins in Denver, where the AFC's No. 1 seed Denver Broncos host the No. 6 Buffalo Bills. This matchup features a fascinating contrast in styles. The Broncos, led by head coach Sean Payton, have been a model of efficiency and defensive dominance at home this season. They welcome a Buffalo team fresh off a gritty road victory over the Jaguars.
The narrative here centers on whether Josh Allen can conquer the elements and the altitude. Bills vs Broncos predictions are split; while Denver boasts the rest advantage and home-field dominance, Buffalo's momentum is undeniable. The Bills' ground game, which chewed up the clock last week, will need to be effective to keep Denver's opportunistic defense off the field. Expect a physical, low-scoring affair where a single turnover could decide who advances to the AFC Championship Game.
Caleb Williams Bears Playoffs Run Continues
Looking ahead to Sunday's slate, all eyes will be on Soldier Field as the Caleb Williams Bears playoffs saga writes its next chapter. The rookie sensation orchestrated a stunning 18-point comeback against the Packers last week, cementing his status as a clutch performer. The Chicago Bears (No. 2 seed) will host the battle-tested Los Angeles Rams in what promises to be an offensive spectacle.
Williams' ability to extend plays and deliver off-platform throws has energized a franchise starved for quarterback success. However, facing a veteran Rams defense led by experienced coordinators presents a steeper challenge than the Wild Card round. If Chicago advances, and if Seattle survives their injury scare, the NFC could see a historic showdown between the top two seeds next week.
As the NFL Playoff Bracket 2026 tightens, every snap matters. From Darnold's health check to Caleb Williams' encore performance, this Divisional Round weekend is poised to deliver the drama NFL fans live for.
