Arizona Cardinals free agent offensive lineman Will Hernandez, fully recovered from ACL surgery, remains an available roster spot opportunity after three years of NFL experience.
The Arizona Cardinals, like many NFL teams during the offseason, are exploring options to bolster their roster, particularly along the offensive line, which is vital for both protecting the quarterback and establishing a consistent rushing attack. Among the notable free agents available is veteran offensive lineman Will Hernandez, who is fully recovered from ACL surgery and presents a compelling option for the Cardinals to fill an offensive line need. With three years of NFL experience under his belt, Hernandez has established himself as a versatile and durable interior lineman capable of contributing immediately. This analysis explores his background, injury recovery, playing style, potential fit with the Cardinals, and overall value as a free agent addition.
Background and NFL Career
Early Life and College
Will Hernandez played college football at the University of Texas-El Paso (UTEP). Known for his physicality, strength, and aggressive blocking style, Hernandez quickly gained recognition as a dominant run blocker and a reliable interior lineman. His combination of size, strength, and tenacity made him a highly sought-after prospect entering the NFL Draft.
Draft and Rookie Year
Hernandez was selected in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft (34th overall) by the New York Giants. His immediate impact as a rookie was notable; he earned a starting position along the Giants’ offensive line and quickly established himself as a core component of their blocking unit.
Playing Style and Strengths
Hernandez is known for his powerful run blocking, leveraging his strength and tenacity to create lanes for the running game. He’s also capable of holding his ground in pass protection, although his game relies heavily on physicality and aggressive blocking. His mental toughness and work ethic are often praised by coaches and teammates.
Performance Highlights
Throughout his NFL career, Hernandez has been a dependable starter, often graded positively by analyst sites. His ability to play multiple interior positions—guard and center—adds to his versatility. Despite some injury setbacks, he has been a durable player when healthy, making him a reliable presence on the offensive line.
The ACL Injury and Recovery
Injury Details
In 2023, Hernandez suffered an ACL tear, which sidelined him and required surgical intervention. ACL injuries are significant for football players, especially those on the offensive line, as they rely heavily on knee stability and strength for explosive movements and lateral agility.
Rehabilitation Process
Hernandez’s recovery from ACL surgery involved a structured rehabilitation process, focusing on restoring strength, stability, and mobility in the knee. Modern surgical techniques and physical therapy protocols have significantly improved recovery times and outcomes for players returning to high-level competition.
Current Status
As of the latest updates, Hernandez has completed his rehabilitation and is fully cleared to participate in team activities. His return to full health means he can contribute immediately if signed, providing a boost to teams seeking interior offensive line help.
Impact of Recovery on Playing Style
While ACL injuries can sometimes affect a player’s agility or explosiveness, Hernandez’s game is primarily power-based, which may mitigate some concerns about his mobility. His strength and technique are expected to be intact, allowing him to resume his role as a physical run blocker and stabilizer in pass protection.
Fit with the Arizona Cardinals
Offensive Line Needs
The Cardinals’ offensive line has faced challenges in recent seasons, including injuries, inconsistent play, and roster turnover. Addressing these issues is critical for the team’s offensive success, especially with a young quarterback or a new offensive scheme.
Hernandez’s Potential Role
Hernandez could slot into the interior line as a guard or center, depending on team needs and coaching preferences. His experience and versatility make him a valuable asset for the Cardinals, who may be looking to solidify their interior line with a proven player.
Scheme Compatibility
Arizona’s offensive scheme emphasizes power running and quick passing, both of which align with Hernandez’s strengths. His ability to create running lanes and hold blocks in pass protection fits well with the team’s offensive philosophy.
Leadership and Experience
At three years into his NFL career, Hernandez brings leadership qualities and a professional attitude, which can be invaluable for a team looking to develop younger linemen or establish a cohesive unit.
Locker Room Presence
His work ethic and toughness are qualities that can positively influence team culture, especially during a rebuilding phase or transition period.
Overall Player Value and Potential Impact
Strengths as a Player
Power Run Blocking: Hernandez excels at creating space in the running game, which is vital for teams emphasizing a ground attack.
Versatility: Ability to play multiple interior line positions provides flexibility for team schemes.
Experience: Three seasons of starting experience against high-caliber NFL competition.
Durability: Despite injury setbacks, Hernandez has shown resilience and the ability to return to form.
Weaknesses and Concerns
Injury History: ACL tear raises questions about future durability and agility.
Technique Limitations: Sometimes relies on strength over technique, which can be exploited by quick pass rushers.
Consistency: Variations in performance grades suggest room for improvement, especially in pass protection nuances.
Potential Impact on the Cardinals
If signed, Hernandez can immediately upgrade the interior line, providing stability and physicality. His presence can help protect the quarterback, especially if the Cardinals are developing a young signal-caller, and improve the team’s rushing attack.
Free Agency Outlook and Market Value
Market Demand
Hernandez’s performance history and versatility make him an attractive free agent target. Injuries may have suppressed his market value temporarily, but his full recovery and proven ability can drive interest from teams seeking interior line help.
Contract Expectations
Given his three years of NFL experience, versatility, and recent injury, Hernandez is likely to command a moderate deal—perhaps in the range of a 1-2 year contract valued between $3 million to $7 million, depending on team needs and cap space.
Comparative Analysis
Similar interior linemen with comparable experience and injury histories have secured contracts in this range. Hernandez’s power-based game and positional flexibility enhance his desirability.
Strategic Fit for the Cardinals
Addressing Roster Gaps
The Cardinals can benefit from Hernandez’s addition to stabilize and upgrade their interior line, contributing to both run blocking and pass protection. His experience can also mentor younger linemen and help the unit develop chemistry.
Cap Space and Budgeting
With prudent cap management, the team can allocate funds for a player of Hernandez’s caliber, especially given the importance of offensive line stability for team success.
Potential for Immediate Contribution
Once fully healthy, Hernandez can step into the starting lineup immediately, providing a veteran presence and leadership. His physical style complements the team’s style of play, emphasizing power and toughness.
Will Hernandez’s journey from his college days at UTEP to his NFL career with the New York Giants and his recent ACL injury recovery reflect resilience, talent, and readiness to contribute. As a free agent, fully recovered from his injury, Hernandez remains an attractive option for the Arizona Cardinals or any NFL team seeking interior offensive line help. His combination of strength, versatility, and experience makes him a valuable addition, capable of making an immediate impact on the team’s run game and pass protection. While injury concerns are valid, his full clearance and rehabilitation suggest that he can return to his pre-injury form, providing stability and leadership on the offensive line. The Cardinals, with their roster needs and strategic goals, could greatly benefit from signing Hernandez, bolstering their front line for the upcoming season.
