The Arizona Cardinals have re-signed right guard Will Hernandez to a one-year deal as he continues his recovery from a torn ACL.
Why it matters: Hernandez’s return signifies the Cardinals’ commitment to bolstering their offensive line, an area that is crucial for both running and passing success.
After joining the Cardinals in 2022, Hernandez started in all 35 games he played, establishing himself as a reliable presence on the line.
His experience and leadership will be vital as the team navigates the challenges of the upcoming season, especially with younger players vying for starting positions.
What’s new: Hernandez has opted to stay with the Cardinals despite interest from multiple teams.
The decision comes after he faced a serious knee injury last season, which limited his contributions in 2023.
Coach Jonathan Gannon expressed confidence in Hernandez’s abilities, noting, "He's a good player but coming off a major injury," indicating the team's intention to manage his recovery carefully.
Yes, but: While Hernandez's leadership and skills are valuable, he will begin the season on the PUP (Physically Unable to Perform) list.
This means that for at least the first part of the season, the Cardinals will rely on Isaiah Adams, a second-year lineman currently holding the starting right guard position.
Gannon remarked on the importance of bringing Hernandez back slowly: “We’ll get him in and get him caught up, get him healthy and ready to go.”
Between the lines: Hernandez’s dedication to the Cardinals is evident, as Gannon noted that during their conversation, "I felt like he wanted to be here."
This enthusiasm could translate into a positive locker room dynamic, fostering a sense of unity and motivation among teammates.
Hernandez’s approach and attitude are seen as essential for maintaining morale, particularly as the team adapts to changes in personnel and strategy.
What to watch: As Hernandez rehabilitates, keep an eye on how quickly he can re-integrate into the lineup.
His performance upon return will be critical not only for the offensive line's effectiveness but also for the overall performance of quarterback Kyler Murray and the ground game.
If Hernandez regains his pre-injury form, he could become a pivotal figure in enhancing the Cardinals' offensive scheme.
The bottom line: The Cardinals decision to re-sign Will Hernandez reflects an understanding of the importance of stability and experience on the offensive line, even as they navigate the complexities of recovery from injury and roster management.
The Arizona Cardinals have re-signed right guard Will Hernandez to a one-year deal as he continues his recovery from a torn ACL.
Why it matters: Hernandez’s return signifies the Cardinals’ commitment to bolstering their offensive line, an area that is crucial for both running and passing success.
After joining the Cardinals in 2022, Hernandez started in all 35 games he played, establishing himself as a reliable presence on the line.
His experience and leadership will be vital as the team navigates the challenges of the upcoming season, especially with younger players vying for starting positions.
What’s new: Hernandez has opted to stay with the Cardinals despite interest from multiple teams.
The decision comes after he faced a serious knee injury last season, which limited his contributions in 2023.
Coach Jonathan Gannon expressed confidence in Hernandez’s abilities, noting, "He's a good player but coming off a major injury," indicating the team's intention to manage his recovery carefully.
Yes, but: While Hernandez's leadership and skills are valuable, he will begin the season on the PUP (Physically Unable to Perform) list.
This means that for at least the first part of the season, the Cardinals will rely on Isaiah Adams, a second-year lineman currently holding the starting right guard position.
Gannon remarked on the importance of bringing Hernandez back slowly: “We’ll get him in and get him caught up, get him healthy and ready to go.”
Between the lines: Hernandez’s dedication to the Cardinals is evident, as Gannon noted that during their conversation, "I felt like he wanted to be here."
This enthusiasm could translate into a positive locker room dynamic, fostering a sense of unity and motivation among teammates.
Hernandez’s approach and attitude are seen as essential for maintaining morale, particularly as the team adapts to changes in personnel and strategy.
What to watch: As Hernandez rehabilitates, keep an eye on how quickly he can re-integrate into the lineup.
His performance upon return will be critical not only for the offensive line's effectiveness but also for the overall performance of quarterback Kyler Murray and the ground game.
If Hernandez regains his pre-injury form, he could become a pivotal figure in enhancing the Cardinals' offensive scheme.
The bottom line: The Cardinals decision to re-sign Will Hernandez reflects an understanding of the importance of stability and experience on the offensive line, even as they navigate the complexities of recovery from injury and roster management.
