Jets rookie OL leaves Monday's practice with apparent knee injury

The New York Jets may have suffered a blow to their offensive line depth late in Monday’s practice. Undrafted rookie offensive lineman Gus Hartwig went down with what appeared to be a leg injury and remained on the ground for several minutes before being helped to the sideline.

Dennis Waszak Jr. of the Associated Press is reporting that Hartwig was able to walk gingerly under his own power to the team’s medical tent, where he was evaluated by trainers.

Jets head coach Aaron Glenn confirmed after practice that the injury appeared to be to Hartwig’s knee and that the team would know more once testing was completed.

Hartwig's injury is an unfortunate development for a player trying to carve out a spot on the 53-man roster. The severity of the injury remains unclear, but any missed time could hurt his chances of making an impression in a crowded offensive line room.

Jets' rookie center Gus Hartwig leaves practice with knee injury

Hartwig originally signed with the Jets this spring after going unselected in the 2025 NFL Draft. At 6-foot-5 and 309 pounds, the former Purdue standout brought experience and versatility to the team's offensive line room.

He started nearly 50 games over five seasons for the Boilermakers (the most experienced center prospect in this year's class) and was named Honorable Mention All-Big Ten every year he played. His 82.1 Pro Football Focus pass-blocking grade ranked top five among Power-5 centers in the 2025 draft class.

A former four-star recruit, Hartwig entered Jets training camp firmly behind Joe Tippmann and Josh Myers on the depth chart at center. That said, his experience at guard gives him added value as a potential swing interior lineman.

That's a quality that could keep him in the mix for a practice squad spot or even a surprise push for the 53-man roster, especially if injuries strike. Unfortunately, his status is now uncertain.

While he was able to leave under his own power, any injury could impact his chances of sticking on a Jets roster that has quality interior depth options like Xavier Newman and even someone like Max Mitchell, who has primarily played tackle.

The Jets will be hoping for good news as they await further evaluation. Hartwig has a real chance to stick around in some capacity if his injury isn't significant and he impresses this summer.

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