Seahawks HC Mike Macdonald lays down game plan for Sam Darnold and starters ahead of preseason game vs Chiefs

Seattle Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald said he will field his starters in the team's preseason game against the Kansas City Chiefs on Friday.

Macdonald plans for the starters to get a taste of the action before pulling them out.

"We're still kind of working through it right now, but our guys are going to start the game out and we'll see how long it goes," Macdonald said, via the team website.

"I'm looking forward to seeing our team go rip and then we can kind of move from there. These guys have been working their tails off. Talking to guys on the sideline, it's hard for them to watch the game and not be a part of it, so I think they're excited to go out there."

Macdonald believes it's good for the starters to get actual game reps. Quarterback Sam Darnold will play, as the coach thinks it's the best way for him to get up to speed.

"I don't think we need to, but I think it's the best thing for us," Macdonald added. "I'm excited to see these guys demonstrate what they've been doing, and they've earned it."

Once the starters and Darnold are pulled from the game, the focus for the coach will be on rookie Jalen Milroe, who was selected by the Seahawks in the third round of the 2025 NFL draft.

As for the Chiefs, Andy Reid was noncommittal on whether the likes of Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce would play on Friday night.

The Seahawks open their 2025 NFL season on Sept. 7 against the San Francisco 49ers. Seattle is +170 to make the playoffs this season, which implies a 37% chance.