Sam Hartman, Commanders quarterback, represents a depth-chart option whose development could influence rookie or veteran QB promotions. His camp performance and grasp of NFL reads will determine whether he stays on the practice squad or earns a Week 1 backup role.

Hartman was cut by Washington, clearing a QB path that could have implications for depth and practice-squad dynamics. His exit leaves a QB room with Daniels, Mariota and Johnson in competition, with Hartman likely eyeing a practice-squad path if unclaimed.

Hartman, college star at Wake Forest and Notre Dame, signed with Washington as an undrafted free agent and spent 2024 on the practice squad. He did not play in an NFL regular-season game and is now a free agent, with potential interest as a practice squad QB for multiple teams seeking developmental depth behind a starter.

Hartman’s rough preseason has him in the spotlight of the QB battle, with turnovers undermining his case for Week 1. His fate could tilt Washington’s offense, and the debate over third-string quarterback play remains a thorn in fantasy projections for the Commanders’ passing game.

Hartman’s rough preseason has him in the spotlight of the QB battle, with turnovers undermining his case for Week 1. His fate could tilt Washington’s offense, and the debate over third-string quarterback play remains a thorn in fantasy projections for the Commanders’ passing game.