Washington Commanders backup quarterback Sam Hartman has been named the lead for the 30th season of “The Bachelor,” with the reality dating series set to premiere on March 21 on ABC.
The 27-year-old signal-caller will balance filming commitments with his professional NFL obligations during the upcoming league offseason.
The transition from the practice squad to primetime television marks a unique intersection of professional sports and entertainment. While Hartman remains under contract with the Commanders, the organization has cleared the logistics for his participation in the long-running franchise, which returns to air after a two-year hiatus.
The logistics of the filming schedule have been a primary point of discussion for the quarterback’s representation. Brian McLaughlin, one of Hartman’s agents, confirmed that the production calendar is being structured to ensure it does not conflict with the player’s duties to the Commanders.
Meet Sam Hartman, your new Bachelor. 🌹 Don’t miss the season premiere of #TheBachelor March 21 on ABC. Stream on Hulu. pic.twitter.com/MbUwN7jqiE
“He did run it by the team and they understood.”
Hartman’s path to the NFL included a prolific collegiate career across Wake Forest and Notre Dame, where he threw for 15,656 yards and 134 touchdowns. Despite his statistical success, he went undrafted in 2024 before signing with Washington, which had recently selected Jayden Daniels with the second overall pick.
| Athlete | Collegiate Background | NFL/Pro Status |
|---|---|---|
| Sam Hartman | Wake Forest / Notre Dame | Washington Commanders (Practice Squad) |
| Grant Ellis | Iona / Southern | Basketball Player |
| Matt James | Wake Forest | Former Player |
The “Bachelor” franchise has a history of recruiting athletes to headline its seasons. Past participants have included basketball players and former NFL figures such as Jesse Palmer, Colton Underwood, and Clay Harbor.
I asked one of Hartman's NFL agents Brian McLaughlin, who said: "[Filming schedule is still being worked out to accommodate the [Commanders] schedule. He did run it by the team and they understood."
The Commanders’ decision to adjust the filming schedule to accommodate Hartman’s role in the series reflects the team’s understanding of his professional obligations. With the season premiere scheduled for March 21, the focus for the franchise remains on the development of their primary roster.
For Hartman, the opportunity to transition into the entertainment space offers a high-profile platform, though his primary professional objective remains securing a permanent spot on an NFL active roster.
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