The Washington Commanders added two rookie quarterbacks to their roster this offseason. While reigning Heisman Trophy winner and second-overall pick Jayden Daniels has taken command of Washington’s top quarterback spot, there is still anticipation surrounding undrafted rookie Sam Hartman.
The excitement following the former Notre Dame and Wake Forest QB is about his on-field abilities and good looks. On Saturday, he made his NFL debut in Washington’s preseason opener against the New York Jets.
Hartman completed 8-of-13 passes for 83 yards. He also added 15 rushing yards, including a 17-yard scramble. Unfortunately, his day ended on the trainer’s table.
Hartman exited with a right shoulder injury. He had an ice bag over his right shoulder. On Monday, Commanders head coach Dan Quinn gave an update on the injury.
Quinn said the Hartman will be out of practice Monday and Tuesday and is day-to-day beyond that, per Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post. Hartman will continue to be evaluated.
Hartman went undrafted in this year’s NFL Draft despite being one of the more notable college quarterbacks. He appeared in 48 games through four years at Wake Forest. His best season was in 2021. He threw for 4,228 yards and 39 touchdowns against 14 interceptions, leading the Demon Deacons to the ACC Championship Game against Pittsburgh.
Hartman transferred to Notre Dame in 2023. He threw for 2,689 yards, 24 touchdowns, and eight interceptions in 12 games for the Fighting Irish.
He entered training camp in a battle with veteran Jeff Driskel for third on Washington’s QB depth chart. Driskel had a steady performance, going 7-of-15 for 87 yards. However, Hartman followed suit, leading the Commanders to a touchdown drive capped with a Michael Wiley score.
Now Sam Hartman will have to battle his shoulder injury to get back up to speed and keep his name in the running to make the Commanders’ roster.
