5 Commanders fringe roster candidates making a name for themselves at camp

Sam Hartman - Commanders QB

Opportunities have been fleeting so far for Sam Hartman. The undrafted free agent remains down the pecking order after wholesale changes to the Washington Commanders' quarterback room this offseason. When he's been given reps, the production is highly encouraging and warrants closer examination in the coming weeks.

Not many expect Hartman to make the team. The Commanders are moving forward with No. 2 overall selection Jayden Daniels as their starting signal-caller. Marcus Mariota is the veteran backup, although his indifferent production throughout Washington's training camp is moderately concerning - something that puts him closer to Jeff Driskel than the No. 1 spot.

This was always going to be a gradual process for Hartman. The former Wake Forest and Notre Dame star looks the part during drills and scrimmages based on the thoughts of those in attendance. Head coach Dan Quinn also stated he'll get more involvement when practices go longer and preseason games arrive.

That will be the ultimate measuring stick for Hartman. Even though his chances have been fleeting up to now, he's given himself a fighting chance of staking a claim for the third quarterback spot or perhaps even a position on the practice squad if he clears waivers.

Tariq Castro-Fields - Commanders CB

Dan Quinn likes his cornerbacks to play fast and physically. They also need the right size and length to cope with significant responsibilities. The position group gets high demands placed on them within his schematic concepts. That won't change entering his first season as Commanders' head coach in 2024.

Tariq Castro-Fields was on the roster bubble entering Washington's first training camp under the new regime. He's done his chances no harm so far, even getting some reps with the first unit in recognition of his outstanding contribution according to those in attendance.

Castro-Fields has the physical profile to potentially thrive within Quinn's system. The defensive back was also drafted by the San Francisco 49ers when Adam Peters held an influential front-office position within the organization. It's a slight confidence boost - something the player has grasped with both hands up to now.

There is a lot of hard work ahead for Castro-Fields. At the same time, he's gone from a relative afterthought to potentially securing his place on the 53-man roster in double-quick time. Building on this positive momentum over Washington's remaining camp sessions and preseason games will cement his status.

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