Commanders Quarterback Named Next Bachelor
Sam Hartman will lead the 30th season of the ABC reality series, premiering March 21, 2027.
By Samuel Hayes ·
Washington Commanders quarterback Sam Hartman will host the 30th season of "The Bachelor," ABC announced Friday. The 27-year-old practice squad member joins a roster of former athletes on the show, which premieres on March 21, 2027.
Hartman has not played in an NFL regular-season game since signing as an undrafted free agent in April 2024. He currently holds the fourth spot on the Commanders depth chart. The announcement follows his college career at Wake Forest and Notre Dame, where he finished with 15,656 passing yards and 134 touchdowns over 60 games.
Speaking on "Good Morning America" Friday, Hartman expressed mixed emotions about the role. "I'm excited but also very nervous," he said. "I have a tough time holding conversation with one girl. Thirty is going to be pretty tough." He admitted to initially declining the offer before consulting with current host and former quarterback Jesse Palmer.
Hartman said Palmer provided clarity on the show's nature, helping him view the experience as a search for a lifelong partner. "He kind of gave me the insight of what it is, what it's not," Hartman explained. He noted that when couples say "I do," they do not ask where they met, only if they want to do it forever.
Teammates offered mixed reactions after the Commanders defeated the New York Giants 24-21 on Thursday. Hartman said players gave him advice on the flight back, leading him to rely on his own instincts. His parents also encouraged him to stay true to himself and trust his gut, qualities that have guided his career so far.
The quarterback described "competitiveness" as a key trait in a potential partner. He wants someone with a drive that motivates him daily, rather than someone who simply responds to texts quickly. This follows the path of previous NFL players on the franchise, including former Wake Forest quarterback Tyler Cameron, who appeared on "The Bachelorette" in 2019.
Hartman's college stats include an Atlantic Coast Conference-high 38 touchdowns for Wake Forest in 2022. In his single season at Notre Dame in 2023, he completed 63.5% of passes for 2,689 yards and 24 touchdowns. He now prepares for a new role in front of cameras while remaining on the practice squad.
