Washington Commanders Waive Sam Hartman, Potential Return to Practice Squad

What's Happening?

The Washington Commanders have decided to waive quarterback Sam Hartman as part of their roster cuts. According to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport, Hartman is expected to return to the Commanders' practice squad if he clears waivers. Hartman, who joined the team as an undrafted rookie free agent before the 2024 season, spent most of the previous year on the practice squad. He briefly joined the active roster in September to serve as a backup during an injury to starting quarterback Jayden Daniels. Despite playing in all three preseason games, Hartman struggled, completing 25 of 46 passes for 207 yards, with no touchdowns and four interceptions. His college career included five seasons at Wake Forest and a final year at Notre Dame, where he threw 134 touchdowns against 49 interceptions.

Why It's Important?

The decision to waive Sam Hartman highlights the competitive nature of NFL roster management, especially for undrafted players. Hartman's potential return to the practice squad suggests the Commanders see developmental value in him despite his preseason performance. This move impacts the team's quarterback depth and strategy, particularly as they navigate injuries and performance issues. For Hartman, clearing waivers and returning to the practice squad could provide him with more time to develop his skills and potentially earn a spot on the active roster in the future. The situation underscores the challenges faced by players transitioning from college to professional football, where performance expectations are significantly higher.

What's Next?

If Sam Hartman clears waivers, he is expected to rejoin the Commanders' practice squad, where he can continue his development. The team will likely monitor his progress closely, considering future opportunities for promotion to the active roster. The Commanders may also explore other quarterback options to strengthen their lineup, depending on Hartman's development and the team's needs. Stakeholders, including fans and analysts, will be watching how the Commanders manage their quarterback situation, especially in light of injuries and performance issues with their current roster.