Name: Gavin Olsen
School: Harvard College / Bentley University 
Position: OL
Height: 6-9
Weight: 330

Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season? 

After graduating from Harvard, my goal in transferring to a division two program was to become a difference-maker for the team. I intended to start, and I did, which ultimately helped bring the team to its first National Playoff appearance in over 17 years. I left my final collegiate season with a sense of accomplishment. I felt valued personally and I was proud of those around me.

Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?

My coaches and teammates would say that I am an empath. They would say that I lift others up and provide an outlet of positivity for those around me. My coaches would argue that I never complain, and my teammates would say that they could always confide in me. Throughout my collegiate career, I made an exerted effort to reach out to players – specifically younger guys – and establish connections. I recognize that football is a brutal and challenging sport, and I believe that a team is only as strong as its weakest link.

Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?

I mostly focus on my footwork and aiming point given the play and defender alignment. If those two imperatives are met, the odds are that you’ve done your job and displaced the defender. Additionally, I focus on effort and intensity of the play – finishing through the whistle and having good body language.

Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position? 

Aside from being a personable leader, intelligence and coachability is what sets me apart from other offensive tackles. Coaches often commend me on my coachability – I am able to apply coaching points from the film room to the field quicker than others.

Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?

I intend on training for a pro day at Harvard University. I look forward to working my hardest to ensure positive results until then.

Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?

Off the field, my strength is my ability to develop a unique understanding of those around me. I am trustworthy, loyal, and I find it easy to motivate and relate to teammates. On the field, my biggest strength is my length – my height and arms benefit me in pass protection, specifically, making it difficult for speed rushers to bend the edge.

Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?

I am the type of man that finds more gratification in lifting up those around me than I do in outperforming them. I am a team player; the success of the unit is of the utmost importance to me. My teammates and coaches would agree with me in that I have a LOT of untapped potential. I have an unusual work ethic and I strongly believe that I’d be a valuable asset to any team.