Why the new 'Bachelor' has a necklace made from his rib

Elizabeth Flores, USA TODAY Fri, November 13, 2026 at 6:11 PM UTC ABC’s “The Bachelor” has selected its next leading man: Washington Commanders backup quarterback Sam Hartman , the same Hartman who made a necklace from a removed rib during his time as a college quarterback. In 2022, Hartman made headlines after undergoing surgery for Paget-Schroetter syndrome, a rare condition that causes blood clots in the veins of the arm or shoulder.

During his treatment, doctors performed a rib resection to relieve pressure on his subclavian vein to help prevent future clotting episodes. Hartman requested to keep the removed rib, and his doctors obliged, giving it to him in a container. After transferring from Wake Forest to Notre Dame in January 2023, Hartman’s mother crafted the rib into a necklace for him ahead of his first game as a Fighting Irish in August 2023.

She described it as a symbol, representing that even though a part of Sam was taken out, nothing could stop his determination. Hartman is now on the Commanders ' practice squad, and appeared on Good Morning America to discuss his thoughts about taking on the leading role. “At first I was like, ‘No way,’” Hartman admitted on GMA.

“But I was fortunate to have a conversation with Jesse Palmer, who gave me some insights into what the show is and what it isn’t. I think anyone in their right mind, if given the chance to find the love of their life, would take it. When you say ‘I do,’ nobody asks where you met—just whether you want to do it forever.

I’m completely okay with that.” "The Bachelor" Season 30 will premiere March 21, 2027, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC. More: 'The Bachelor' names NFL quarterback Sam Hartman as Season 30 lead This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Why the new 'Bachelor' has a necklace made from his rib