Sam Hartman is preparing for a significant career shift, trading his football helmet for a suit as he takes on the role of the lead in the next season of The Bachelor. The 27-year-old quarterback for the Washington Commanders was officially named the star of the ABC franchise, which is set to launch its 30th season in March 2027. Hartman made the announcement on Good Morning America on Friday morning, following Washington's victory over the New York Giants in Week 10 on Thursday night.
Speaking to ABC News, Hartman expressed a mix of anticipation and apprehension about the experience. He stated that he is excited but also very nervous, noting that holding a conversation with a single person is difficult for him. Consequently, he admitted that managing interactions with 30 women will be a challenging task. This transition from the gridiron to reality television marks a notable step for the young athlete as he steps into the national spotlight.
According to NFL Network, the production schedule for the show is designed to accommodate Hartman's professional obligations. Filming is planned for early 2027, spanning the NFL offseason. This timing suggests that his role as a player for the Commanders will not be disrupted by the demands of the reality series. The alignment of the shooting schedule with his time off from football allows him to pursue this new venture without conflicting with his team's season.
Hartman has been part of the Washington Commanders organization since 2024, when he signed as an undrafted free agent out of Notre Dame. Currently, he is a member of the team's practice squad. During his time with the franchise, he has moved between the active roster and the practice squad. Although he is a key backup, Hartman has not yet made an appearance in an NFL regular season game for Washington.
His collegiate journey began at Wake Forest, where he played 48 games before transferring to Notre Dame for his final season in 2023. At Wake Forest, Hartman established himself as a program record holder, becoming the all-time leading passer with 12,967 yards. He earned All-ACC second team honors in 2021 and All-ACC third team recognition in 2022. His performance and resilience during his time in the Atlantic Coast Conference set the stage for his move to the pros.
During the 2022 season, Hartman faced a medical challenge that highlighted his determination. He was diagnosed with Paget-Schroetter syndrome, a condition that causes blood clots in veins near the collarbone. The diagnosis required him to undergo surgery, yet he missed only one game that year. In recognition of his perseverance, he was awarded the Brian Piccolo Award for being the most courageous player in the ACC.
Hartman's final collegiate season at Notre Dame in 2023 was marked by strong statistical output and team success. He led the Fighting Irish to a 9-3 record while completing 63.5% of his passes. His performance included 2,689 passing yards, 24 touchdowns, and just eight interceptions. These achievements demonstrated his capability at a high level of competition before he opted for the professional ranks.
As The Bachelor prepares for its 30th season, the casting of an active NFL player adds a unique dynamic to the long-running series. Hartman's background as a quarterback, combined with his recent recognition in the college football world, positions him as a compelling figure for the show's audience. The upcoming season will see him navigating the complexities of reality television while maintaining his status as a professional athlete in the NFL.
The announcement of Hartman as the next Bachelor represents a convergence of sports and entertainment. Fans of the Commanders and viewers of the reality show alike will be watching his journey in the coming months. With the filming set to occur during the offseason, Hartman has the opportunity to focus fully on the production while still preparing for his next chapter with Washington.
