Seventh-round rookie quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis isn’t guaranteed to make the Washington Commanders roster. But it doesn’t sound like the rookie wants to be anywhere else.
While appearing on the first episode of “Raising Hail with the rookies” this offseason, Kaliakmanis told host Bryan Colbert Jr. how comfortable he already feels in Washington.
“The competitive spirit inside the building, it just fits me,” said Kaliakmanis. “It reminded me of my time at Minnesota [and] my time at Rutgers; a culture-fit team, and that’s exactly what Coach [Dan] Quinn has here.”
The Commanders drafted Kaliakmanis at No. 223 overall in the seventh round of the 2026 NFL Draft. Pundits expect the rookie to compete for the QB3 job.
Athan Kaliakmanis to Compete for QB3 Job
The seventh-round signal-caller has arrived in Washington at an interesting time. For the first time in awhile, the Commanders have a clear-cut starter behind center with Jayden Daniels. The backup role is also occupied with Marcus Mariota.
But the QB3 job is potentially open. ESPN’s John Keim reported Kaliakmanis should compete for that role.
“Hartman struggled last preseason, and Washington clearly views Kaliakmanis as someone who can win the job,” wrote Keim. “He is also a good fit in new coordinator David Blough’s play-action system.
“The question is whether Kaliakmanis is able to develop into a No. 2 option, but we’ll have to wait a couple years to answer that.”
With all three quarterbacks already in Washington, Kaliakmanis has a great opportunity to learn.
“These are great QBs with historic stats,” said Kaliakmanis. “All three of them have historic stats. I’m excited to learn from them. I’m excited to come in and compete but learn; take as much as I possibly can from each one of them. They’ve done great things in their careers, and one day, I hope to do what they do.”
While appearing on “Raising Hail with the rookies,” Kaliakmanis added that the quarterback room is working to improve.
Commanders Rookie QB Thankful for Supportive Family
During the same media appearance, Kaliakmanis was very grateful not only for the Commanders drafting him but the support group that helped him become an NFL draft pick.
Kaliakmanis talked at length about the sacrifices his father made during his childhood. The quarterback’s brother played wide receiver in college, which helped Kaliakmanis develop as a passer.
The new Commanders quarterback also thanked his past teammates and coaches.
“The people there have been with me every step of the way. They have helped me get here,” he said. “My coaches, you know, everyone that has been a part of my life helped me get to where I am. They had an important part of my journey. I’m just so thankful for the people that have been part of my life. Everyone has helped me and had an impact on my life.”
Kaliakmanis split his college career between Minnesota and Rutgers. He started his final two collegiate campaigns at Rutgers in 2024 and 2025.
While playing in 25 games, Kaliakmanis had 5,820 passing yards while averaging 7.6 yards per attempt for Rutgers. He also threw 38 touchdowns versus 14 interceptions.
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