Yes. I used to do the whole damp paper towel in a Ziplock bag way, but for some time, I've just been putting the seeds directly into my medium, just like I do with 100% of all other plants I grow (vegetables, herbs, flowers etc).
Not only have I found that there's far less risk of damaging the taproots, I sprout sooner. Two to three days from seed to dirt and I've got a plant. With the paper towel method, that was four or longer.
Mind you, I've been a soil and peat grower for cannabis and all manner of other plant life for decades, so it's second nature for me exactly how much water and when to give the pot. It's also very important to not overly compact your medium, and only put the seed about a 1/2" deep. Cover it over with dirt, put a few ounces of water on top of where the seed is, and wait.