Commanders' preseason disaster hits one player harder than anyone else

The Washington Commanders' quarterback room hasn't featured a whole lot of drama this offseason, because after years of trial and error, the team finally has its unchallenged long-term answer in Jayden Daniels.

Furthermore, veteran Marcus Mariota is set to return as Daniels' primary backup, meaning Washington's other quarterbacks will only be competing for third-string duties. Still, the Commanders should be expected to roster a third signal-caller, and it will be interesting to watch how the competition plays out.

In their preseason opener against the New England Patriots, the battle for the QB3 slot took center stage. Former undrafted free agent Sam Hartman got the start, playing most of the first half before giving way to long-time journeyman Josh Johnson.

Sam Hartman is already behind in Commanders' QB3 race after one preseason game

The ex-Wake Forest and Notre Dame standout was shaky in Washington's 48-18 loss, completing nine out of 19 pass attempts for 64 yards with no touchdowns and an interception. Making matters worse for him was that the offense moved much better with Johnson under center.

Of course, it's worth noting that Hartman was thrust into the more difficult situation. The quarterback and Washington's other third-stringers went up against the New England Patriots' first-string defense. He was also a victim of bad luck on two brutal Chris Moore drops in the first quarter, both of which would have moved the chains on third down.

Johnson faced the Patriots' backups. He went 15-for-22 for 173 passing yards and a score. He also threw a pick, but it was a tipped ball that went right through the hands of undrafted wide receiver Jacoby Jones.

Hartman was signed on a flyer last offseason and spent the majority of the 2024 campaign on the practice squad. He was brought back for a second chance in 2025, but the Commanders also brought in Johnson to compete for the same role. So far, it looks like the edge belongs to the 39-year-old who has played for more teams than anyone else in NFL history.

It may be for the better for Johnson to earn the slot, given his age and experience. It could also be a blessing in disguise for Hartman, who isn't going to suit up in any meaningful game for the Commanders. If he has any aspirations to carve out a long-term future in the NFL, they were never going to be fulfilled in Washington as long as Daniels is around.

After this performance, Hartman may not have a choice. Barring a significant turn of events, he'll simply have to hope somebody else snags him up in a few weeks.

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