In an era where the transfer portal has become as prominent as ever, college football fans have grown accustomed to seeing high-profile players make moves that shake up the landscape of college football. One of the most notable moves this offseason came when quarterback Sam Hartman, one of the most consistent and accomplished signal-callers in recent college football history, announced his decision to leave Notre Dame and transfer to the University of Washington.
Hartman’s decision to head to the Pacific Northwest was not just another transfer; it was a seismic shift in the college football universe. The move marked a new chapter in a career that had already featured years of success at Wake Forest and Notre Dame. As one of the most sought-after quarterbacks in the portal, Hartman’s arrival in Washington is one of the most high-profile moves of the offseason.
For those unfamiliar with Sam Hartman, it’s essential to understand the magnitude of this transfer. Hartman’s journey began in Wake Forest, where he spent several years establishing himself as one of the top quarterbacks in the ACC. As a true freshman, Hartman quickly showed his potential, becoming the starter and leading Wake Forest to several competitive seasons. However, it was in his senior year at Wake Forest that Hartman truly made a name for himself. In 2022, he led the Demon Deacons to an 11-win season, their best in recent history, and finished with over 4,200 passing yards and 39 touchdowns. His performance caught the attention of NFL scouts and college football fans across the country.
But after five seasons at Wake Forest, Hartman sought a new challenge, ultimately deciding to transfer to Notre Dame for his final season of eligibility. His arrival in South Bend was met with great anticipation, as the Fighting Irish had been in search of a proven quarterback after a season of inconsistent play at the position. Hartman delivered in a big way, throwing for over 3,700 yards and 30 touchdowns in his lone season at Notre Dame. Despite some ups and downs, Hartman’s leadership and poise under pressure were undeniable, as he helped guide the Irish to a New Year’s Six bowl game.
However, despite his success at Notre Dame, Hartman’s journey was far from over. As the 2024 season approached, Hartman entered the transfer portal once again, making the announcement that he would take his talents to Washington. For many, this move came as a surprise, but for Hartman, it represented an opportunity to continue his growth in a new environment, with a new set of challenges.
The University of Washington is a program on the rise. Under head coach Kalen DeBoer, the Huskies have transformed into one of the most potent offensive teams in the country. DeBoer’s high-powered offense has turned Washington into a force to be reckoned with in the Pac-12, and the addition of Hartman to that system could make the Huskies an even more dangerous team in 2024 and beyond.
At Washington, Hartman will be joining a team that already boasts a talented roster, led by standout wide receiver Rome Odunze and quarterback Michael Penix Jr., a star in his own right who has taken the Pac-12 by storm. Penix’s success at Washington has raised the profile of the program, and many expect the Huskies to be a contender in the conference for the next few seasons. Hartman’s arrival adds yet another layer to Washington’s already impressive offensive firepower.
One of the biggest draws for Hartman in choosing Washington was the opportunity to play in one of the most pass-friendly systems in the country. DeBoer’s offense is built to showcase the talents of its quarterback, and Hartman’s strong arm, ability to read defenses, and penchant for making big plays downfield are a perfect fit for what DeBoer wants to do offensively. In Washington, Hartman will be surrounded by a talented group of receivers who can stretch the field and give him plenty of opportunities to make plays.
Furthermore, Hartman will be playing in a conference that is undergoing significant changes. The Pac-12, once a dominant force in college football, has experienced a shift in recent years, with several high-profile programs leaving for other conferences. Washington, however, has remained a steady presence and could emerge as one of the top teams in the Pac-12 in the coming seasons. With the departure of USC and UCLA to the Big Ten, the door is wide open for Washington to establish itself as one of the premier programs on the West Coast.
From a personal standpoint, Hartman’s decision to transfer to Washington is a calculated one. Despite his tremendous success at Wake Forest and Notre Dame, he still has much to prove on the national stage. The 2024 season presents an opportunity for Hartman to showcase his talents in front of a wider audience, especially with the spotlight on the Pac-12 in its final years before the conference realignment begins to take effect.
In terms of his playing style, Hartman has always been a quarterback who thrives in both the short and deep passing games. His quick release and ability to make tight throws in the middle of the field have been hallmarks of his success. At Washington, Hartman will have the opportunity to work with an offensive system that will allow him to make the most of these skills. DeBoer’s system is one that values explosive plays, and Hartman’s ability to push the ball downfield fits perfectly into that philosophy.
Moreover, Hartman’s leadership and ability to command a huddle will serve him well in Washington. The Huskies are a team that prides itself on toughness, and having a seasoned veteran like Hartman under center can only strengthen that mindset. Hartman’s experience in high-pressure situations, whether it be in close games or high-stakes bowl matchups, will be invaluable to a Washington team that has its eyes set on big goals in 2024.
Hartman’s transfer to Washington also represents a shift in the way college football programs approach quarterback recruiting. With the advent of the transfer portal, many programs are now prioritizing experienced quarterbacks over the traditional route of developing young talent through recruiting. In many ways, Hartman is the epitome of this new approach—he is a proven commodity who brings with him years of experience and a track record of success. Washington, much like many other programs, is betting that Hartman can take their offense to new heights and lead them to a Pac-12 championship and potentially even a College Football Playoff appearance.
But what does this mean for the future of Sam Hartman’s career? If he can lead Washington to a successful season in 2024, there is little doubt that he will be one of the top quarterbacks in the 2025 NFL Draft. Hartman’s ability to read defenses, his strong arm, and his poise in the pocket make him an attractive prospect for NFL scouts. With his years of experience and a potential standout season in Washington, Hartman could be in line to hear his name called on draft day.
However, before any of that can happen, Hartman’s focus will be on leading Washington to success in the 2024 season. With a strong supporting cast and an offense designed to highlight his strengths, Hartman has all the tools he needs to thrive in Seattle. The pressure will be on, but if history has shown us anything, it’s that Hartman thrives when the stakes are high.
In the end, Sam Hartman’s transfer to Washington is not just about football; it’s about the pursuit of greatness. After years of proving himself at Wake Forest and Notre Dame, Hartman is taking the next step in his journey, seeking new challenges and opportunities to shine. The Huskies are fortunate to have him, and in return, Hartman will have the chance to elevate Washington to new heights. Whether it leads to a Pac-12 title or a potential run at the College Football Playoff, one thing is certain: Sam Hartman’s move to Washington will be a defining moment in his college football career, and it could be the start of something special for the Huskies.
