One of the more highly-regarded undrafted free agents the Jets signed in 2025 was Purdue center Gus Hartwig.
He certainly looks the part at 6-5, 309, and the four-time Academic All-Big Ten selection has the kind of high football IQ you need to handle this mentally challenging position on the NFL level.
“I like to use my mind to be a step ahead of guys and use that to my advantage,” Hartwig told ‘Gold and Black.’ “I spent a lot of time watching film and I can see tendencies. I can see this and anticipate that and help myself out a little bit.”
He also gets high marks for leadership.
“He’s a super smart player and he’s a great leader and a great person,” said Purdue QB Hudson Card.
So Hartwig has a lot going for him, but just needs to get a little stronger to deal with powerful NFL defensive tackles, so he doesn’t get bull-rushed. However, there is a lot to work with here, so don’t be shocked if this guy hangs around in Florham Park.
Barring injury, it could be hard for him to grab a regular roster spot out of camp with the Jets’ strength at center with Joe Tippmann and Josh Myers, but Hartwig could certainly vie for a practice squad spot with a good training camp.
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