The Washington Commanders have their sights set on the 2025 NFL Draft. That hasn't stopped general manager Adam Peters from scouring the veteran pool to plug gaps before the all-important selection event.
His latest move won't exactly move the needle, but it does turn up the heat on a fledgling second-year pro who's looking to go one better this time around.
According to John Keim of ESPN, the Commanders are signing veteran quarterback Josh Johnson to a one-year deal. This is the journeyman's second stop in Washington. He spent last season on the Baltimore Ravens, suiting up six times as Lamar Jackson's backup.
Johnson knows Peters well. They spent time together on the San Francisco 49ers, and the move rounds off Washington's quarterback room nicely heading into the offseason workouts
Commanders signing Josh Johnson turns up the heat on Sam Hartman
Jayden Daniels is the franchise quarterback and a genuine superstar despite just one NFL season under his belt. The Commanders re-signed Marcus Mariota to be the strong veteran backup presence once again. Johnson's arrival doesn't impact them whatsoever. That's not the case with Sam Hartman.
The former undrafted free agent came into the Commanders last season. Hartman was a developmental player who formed a close relationship with Daniels right out of the gate. He didn't do enough to make the roster, but Washington kept him around on the practice squad to continue working on problem areas of his game.
Hartman was probably aiming for more this time around. The Commanders kept three quarterbacks on their 53-man roster last season, so an opening is there, providing the coaching staff is happy with the player's growth. Jeff Driskel — last year's No. 3 signal-caller — didn't get a new deal. Johnson took his place, who'll also be holding out hope of a roster spot if everything goes well.
The Notre Dame graduate shouldn't have expected a clear run to the third-string role. Washington was always going to add another quarterback for their offseason preparations. It just so happens they went with a veteran rather than another undrafted free agent.
That might work in his favor. Daniels is no longer a rookie needing a strong support system. Mariota provides everything on that front, so the Commanders could go with the younger option and give Hartman some experience as part of the active roster.
What comes next is down to Hartman. Johnson's arrival raises the stakes, especially considering his vast experience and familiarity with different schematic concepts. He'll get every chance to stake a stronger claim, but seizing every opportunity that comes his way is paramount.
If Hartman cannot meet expectations, the Commanders have a solid option in Johnson ready to step up.
