India, Nov. 13 -- NFL quarterback Sam Hartman is set to take center stage in the upcoming 30th season of ABC's hit reality dating series The Bachelor, the network revealed on November 13.

The network described the 27-year-old athlete as someone who is ready to find lasting love. "The 27-year-old pro athlete is ready to find his forever teammate," ABC's news release said. "With the same leadership and heart that won over fans on the field, Hartman will begin handing out roses as he searches for love."

During an appearance on ABC's Good Morning America on Nov. 13, Hartman opened up about his initial reaction to the idea of becoming the franchise's next Bachelor. Reflecting on his hesitation, he admitted, "Honestly, at first, I was like no...