STRENGTHS - Hartsfield is a physical player off the ball. His ability to fend off blocks, combined with his ability to close quickly makes him very good against the run. When he gets to the ball carrier he shows the discipline to square up and shows very good tackle technique. Turns hips fairly well, although this could improve, and shows the ability to jump into coverage. He shows solid footwork and slides his feet well in order to square up the ball carrier. On blitz packages he shows the ability to explode through an open gap. Shows solid awareness, tends to read the QB well.
WEAKNESSES - Hartsfield does not have decisive speed in the open field. While he shows the ability to make the plays and close quickly, he lacks the energy at times to play full through and explode to the ball carrier. At times it looks like he's disinterested. Struggles to maintain coverage for a period of time and when he plays in the zone coverage, he does not show the quickness to pick up the route runner.
SUMMARY - Hartsfield has a solid frame for a linebacker, but will need to add some weight and muscle to improve his strength. He has shown the ability to break off blocks, however this is inconsistent and will need to improve on that to make a successful transition. Hartsfield can get into coverage well with his ability to turn his hips well, although he will need to work on this as well and flip them more quickly. He will need to improve his coverage skills as he shows a struggle to maintain coverage for any period of time. He does not show the explosiveness in the open field that I would like to see out of the linebacker position. He at times looks disinterested or has the lack of effort to get to the ball carrier. Other times he shows he will fly to the ball on the opposite side of the field. Hartsfield tore his ACL his senior season. From a skill standpoint, Hartsfield will need to become a more consistent player in all aspects of his game. On film he showed flashes that he could be a very productive player in the NFL, and other times it seemed he will get pushed around due to his lack of effort. Overall, Hartsfield projects as a project player who needs to improve his playing strength to make him better at defeating OL blocks if he is ever going to be more than a backup fighting to make a roster every season.