Hartman’s night struggled, complicating the passing game and leaving room for others to seize the backup quarterback role. His command of the offense will be critical for Washington’s aerial success, and any improvement could directly boost the receivers’ fantasy viability once the starter returns.

Hartman’s night was turbulent, continuing a shaky preseason with an intercepted throw and zip concerns tied to offseason shoulder surgery. He’s not feared to win the 53-man roster, but he faces a sobering path to the practice squad unless he proves improvable in the final tune-up.

Hartman started the prior game but faced receiver drops; he must rebound in the Cincinnati tilt to stay in the No. 3 QB mix and possibly earn a practice-squad spot in 2025, depending on performance and Jayden Daniels’ departure timeline.

Hartman displayed a budding rhythm in practice but a clunky rhythm in game action, finishing 9-for-19 for 64 yards with an interception. The QB3 battle remains open, with veteran Johnson offering a leg up in the early stages.

Sam Hartman's difficult outing as the starting quarterback showed limitations in his ability to adapt to the NFL level. With veteran Josh Johnson performing better off the bench, Hartman's roster status may be in jeopardy.