Washington Commanders Quarterback Sam Hartman Cast as Next Lead for 'The Bachelor'

Washington Commanders backup quarterback Sam Hartman is stepping away from the gridiron temporarily to star on ABC's reality dating series "The Bachelor." The announcement was made Friday morning on "Good Morning America," coming just hours after the Commanders secured a 24-21 victory over the New York Giants on Thursday night.

Hartman, currently occupying the fifth spot on the team's quarterback depth chart, has spent time in the preseason but is yet to appear in a regular-season contest. Signed as an undrafted free agent in 2024 by Washington, the 27-year-old signal-caller previously put together a prolific collegiate career spanning six seasons—five at Wake Forest, where he topped the ACC with 38 passing touchdowns in 2022, and a final year at Notre Dame concluding with a Sun Bowl victory against Oregon State.

Initially hesitant about taking the reality television role, Hartman sought counsel from former NFL quarterback and current franchise host Jesse Palmer. According to the incoming star, Palmer provided the necessary perspective to sway his decision. Hartman becomes the third professional football player to lead the program, following Palmer and former Oakland Raiders practice squad member Colton Underwood. His season of the dating competition is scheduled to premiere on March 21.

What to watch next: Hartman's season debut on ABC on March 21, alongside his ongoing development on the Washington practice squad.