The Washington Commanders took to the field Saturday for their first preseason game, with almost all of the depth players getting their fair share of action, including former Notre Dame quarterback Sam Hartman.
However, Hartman suffered an injury during the game. What is the latest update?
Commanders QB Sam Hartman Injured vs. Jets
In his first NFL game action, Hartman split the majority of the team’s quarterback snaps with Jeff Driskel after starter Jayden Daniels, the No. 2 overall pick in this year’s draft, left the game following the first drive.
Hartman left the game with 12 minutes left in the fourth quarter and never returned, with Driskel taking the rest of the reps. Hartman finished the game 8-of-13 for 83 yards and no touchdowns. He had two rushes for 17 yards.
According to Nicki Jhabvala of the Washington Post, Hartman had an ice bag taped around his right shoulder and was carted to the MRI room.
Sam Hartman to Tremayne who goes up high to snag this pass pic.twitter.com/mvMYonSbEw
— Mark Tyler(Hogs Haven) (@Tiller56) August 10, 2024
Hartman has dealt with injuries in the past, most notably a season-ending right foot and ankle injury back in 2018. He also dealt with blood clots that almost ended his career.
The Commanders have not given an official update on Hartman’s status.
Roster Implications of Hartman’s Injury
For Hartman, if this injury is serious, it could potentially spell the end of his time with the Commanders.
Harman has been competing with Driskel for the team’s backup spot, so a serious injury would likely give Driskel the QB2 job. It could potentially lead to Hartman being waived/injured, reverting him back to injured reserve if he isn’t claimed by another team.
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If the injury isn’t serious, though, it could just be a hiccup for the rookie. There are still two more preseason games left for Hartman to compete in. Driskel likely has the lead now, but the distance between the two isn’t enough for Hartman to be out of the race already.
Hartman’s age — he recently turned 25 — won’t help his case. Despite being a rookie, there’s a decent chance the Commanders don’t view him as a developmental backup like most rookie backup QBs. For context, Hartman is almost two years older than Daniels and three years older than No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams of the Chicago Bears.
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