If Commanderswerehavingacompetitionfora 3rd-string Q Bitsover

Published in Sports and Competition on Sunday, August 10th 2025 at 6:08 GMT by Commanders Wire
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Will the Commanders keep three quarterbacks? If so, that competition ended on Friday.

Commanders Ramp Up Competition for Third-String Quarterback Spot Amid Roster Battles

In the ever-competitive landscape of the NFL, the Washington Commanders are turning heads with their intense battle for the third-string quarterback position, a role that might seem minor but could prove pivotal in a league where injuries and unpredictability reign supreme. As training camp heats up, the team is fostering a healthy rivalry among several signal-callers vying for that crucial backup-to-the-backup spot, highlighting head coach Dan Quinn's emphasis on depth and preparedness. This competition not only underscores the Commanders' strategy to build a resilient roster but also reflects broader trends in how NFL teams are approaching quarterback development in an era of high-stakes contracts and injury risks.

At the heart of this contest are a handful of quarterbacks who bring varied experiences and skill sets to the table. Leading the pack is Jeff Driskel, a journeyman with stints across multiple teams, including the Cincinnati Bengals, Detroit Lions, and Houston Texans. Driskel, at 31 years old, offers a blend of mobility and arm strength that has kept him in the league despite never securing a starting role. His ability to extend plays with his legs makes him a intriguing option for Quinn's offensive schemes, which often incorporate elements of misdirection and play-action. However, Driskel's inconsistency in decision-making under pressure has been a point of criticism, and he's aware that this camp could be a make-or-break moment in his career.

Challenging Driskel is Trace McSorley, a former Baltimore Ravens and Arizona Cardinals quarterback known for his grit and improvisational style. McSorley, who starred at Penn State in college, has shown flashes of potential in limited NFL action, particularly in his ability to make off-schedule throws. His familiarity with mobile quarterbacks like Lamar Jackson during his Ravens days could align well with the Commanders' current starter, Jayden Daniels, a dual-threat phenom drafted second overall. McSorley's edge lies in his quick release and football IQ, but questions about his arm talent and size (he's listed at 6-foot-0) have lingered, making this competition a proving ground for whether he can overcome those perceived limitations.

Adding another layer to the mix is undrafted free agent Sam Hartman, a rookie out of Notre Dame who brings a pro-style pedigree from his college days. Hartman, who transferred from Wake Forest, amassed impressive stats in the ACC and independents, showcasing accuracy on intermediate routes and poise in the pocket. While he's the least experienced of the bunch, his upside is tantalizing—coaches have praised his work ethic and ability to quickly grasp complex playbooks. In a league where young quarterbacks are often groomed as long-term investments, Hartman represents the Commanders' bet on potential, even if it means weathering some rookie growing pains.

Head coach Dan Quinn has been vocal about the importance of this competition, emphasizing that no spot on the roster is guaranteed. "We're building a culture where every player earns their keep," Quinn stated during a recent press conference. "The third quarterback might not see the field much, but in this game, you never know when your number gets called. We want guys who are ready to step up and lead." This philosophy is a departure from previous regimes under former owner Dan Snyder, where roster decisions sometimes favored big names over merit-based competitions. Quinn, fresh off a successful stint as the Dallas Cowboys' defensive coordinator, is instilling a meritocracy that extends from starters to depth players, aiming to foster accountability and motivation across the board.

The competition isn't just about individual performances; it's intertwined with the Commanders' overall quarterback room dynamics. Starter Jayden Daniels, the highly touted rookie from LSU, is locked in as the franchise's future, with veteran Marcus Mariota serving as the primary backup. Mariota's experience provides a safety net, but the third spot is critical for emergency scenarios, as evidenced by recent NFL seasons where teams like the San Francisco 49ers and Philadelphia Eagles relied on deep depth to navigate injuries. The Commanders' front office, led by general manager Adam Peters, has prioritized quarterback insurance after last season's inconsistencies under Sam Howell, who was traded away in the offseason.

Training camp practices have been electric, with the quarterbacks rotating reps in 7-on-7 drills and simulated game situations. Observers note that Driskel has impressed with his deep-ball accuracy, connecting on several long throws during scrimmages. McSorley, meanwhile, has turned heads with his scrambling ability, evading pass rushers and turning potential sacks into positive gains. Hartman, the dark horse, has shown maturity beyond his years, making smart check-downs and avoiding turnovers—a key metric for Quinn's staff. Turnovers have been a focal point, as the Commanders ranked near the bottom of the league in giveaway margin last year, and Quinn is determined to flip that script.

Beyond the on-field battles, this competition highlights the human element of the NFL. For these quarterbacks, securing the third spot means not just a roster spot but financial security and a chance to extend their careers. Driskel, a father of two, has spoken about the mental toll of bouncing between teams, while McSorley draws inspiration from his underdog story at Penn State. Hartman, wide-eyed and eager, represents the dreams of countless undrafted players hoping to defy the odds. Coaches have incorporated film study sessions and one-on-one mentoring to accelerate development, with Daniels and Mariota offering insights to the contenders.

As the preseason approaches, the Commanders plan to give these quarterbacks ample opportunities in exhibition games to showcase their skills. The first preseason matchup against the New York Jets will be telling, with Quinn hinting that playing time will be distributed based on camp performances. Analysts predict that Driskel might have a slight edge due to his veteran savvy, but McSorley's athleticism could sway the decision if he minimizes mistakes. Hartman, while a long shot for the active roster, could land on the practice squad, positioning him for future call-ups.

This third-string competition is more than a footnote in the Commanders' offseason narrative—it's a microcosm of the team's rebuilding efforts under new ownership and leadership. With Josh Harris at the helm, the franchise is shedding its tumultuous past and focusing on sustainable success. By investing in depth at quarterback, the Commanders are signaling a commitment to excellence, ensuring that even the benchwarmers are battle-tested and ready. As the NFL evolves, stories like this remind us that championships are won not just by stars, but by the depth that supports them.

The outcome of this battle could ripple through the season, potentially influencing trade decisions or waiver wire moves as cutdown day looms. For now, the Commanders' quarterback room is a hive of activity, where competition breeds improvement, and every throw counts toward securing a spot in the burgundy and gold. Fans and pundits alike will be watching closely, as this under-the-radar rivalry could quietly shape the team's fortunes in 2024 and beyond.

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If Commanderswerehavingacompetitionfora 3rd-string Q Bitsover

Commanders Ramp Up Competition for Third-String Quarterback Spot Amid Roster Battles