NFL DraftScouting Reports

2024 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Gus Hartwig, OC, Purdue

Gus Hartwig is a smart center who is a very good pass protector for Purdue. Hula Bowl scout Bryan Ault breaks down Hartwig as an NFL Prospect in his report.
Gus Hartwig is a smart center who is a very good pass protector for Purdue. Hula Bowl scout Bryan Ault breaks down Hartwig as an NFL Prospect in his report.

Player Data

Name, Jersey #Gus Hartwig, #53
School (Code)INPU
DOB, Class Yr1-21-2002, Senior
Height, Weight6050, 315
Position/DepthOC / 1st 
Honors/CaptainshipAll-Big 10 Honorable Mention, Academic All Big 10
Season Viewed (yr)2022
Games WatchedPAST, MNUN, MDUN
Scout Name / DateBryan Ault, 8-14-2023

Per Year Stats (Most Recent First)

202211 GP
202113 GP
20206 GP

Player Summary:

Senior. Starts at OC. Great size and strength for the position. Versatile and athletic prospect – also played OG in high school. Very smart (academic honors) and has good instincts for the position. Good in pass protection and above-average run blocker who could really boost his draft stock with a good senior season. Does a good job of snapping and stepping into playing position. In pass protection, he is good. Plays with a wide base, keeps defenders between his feet, displays good use-of-hands and strike timing. Has good knee bend for his size and plays with good leverage. Quick first step and can mirror interior rushers while staying square.  Does a good job of handling twists/stunts. Questionable anchor strength – gets walked back into the pocket a little too much and would like to see him sustain blocks better. Will occasionally lunge in his posture and needs to develop power angles in his stance more consistently. As a run blocker, he is above average. Gets good vertical push around the goal line. Needs to make sure initial DTs are blocked before working to the 2nd level.  Key issue is balance – winds up on the ground too much. Needs to fire forward at the LOS better and reach the 2nd level. Struggles to latch onto second-level defenders. Is quick to release and get out into the open field on screens but struggles to identify, latch onto defenders and drive them off the ball when playing in space. Has potential if he improves as a run blocker.

Scheme Fit:

OC. Could also play OG.

Power Statement:

Gus has a lot of potential if he improves as a run blocker, notably in terms of balance and blocking at the second level. His strengths in pass protection make him a legitimate prospect. A strong senior campaign could boost his draft stock considerably.

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