Will Hernandez Set for Imminent Return to Arizona Cardinals
The Arizona Cardinals are on the brink of welcoming back a pivotal player as the team’s general manager confirms that veteran guard Will Hernandez is nearing his return to the field.
Injury Setbacks and a Hopeful Comeback
Last season, the Cardinals’ starting right guard, Will Hernandez, was sidelined early on due to a torn ACL sustained during a game against the San Francisco 49ers. His absence left a significant void not only on the field but also within the team’s locker room. Recognizing his value, Arizona brought Hernandez back this offseason, signing him to a new contract, which primarily aims to bolster an offensive line that has struggled to find its footing.
As it stands, Hernandez’s return couldn’t come at a more crucial time. Both Evan Brown and Isaiah Adams, the current starters, have faced criticism for their lackluster performances. With the team’s offensive line under fire, Hernandez’s experience and skill set make him an invaluable asset as the Cardinals seek to improve their game.
Progress Report from the GM
In a recent interview on Arizona Sports’ 98.7 FM, GM Monti Ossenfort provided encouraging news regarding Hernandez’s rehabilitation process. “Every week he’s ramped up his time and ramped up what he’s doing, and he’s getting closer,” Ossenfort stated, highlighting the dedication Hernandez has shown during his recovery.
The GM emphasized the importance of Hernandez gaining valuable reps on the practice field, indicating that the guard’s hard work is paying off. “He’s put a lot of hard work in to be where he’s at,” Ossenfort added, reinforcing the belief that Hernandez is on track for a swift return.
Challenges for the Offensive Line
Despite a promising 2-0 start to the season, the Cardinals have struggled to establish a solid run game, a challenge exacerbated by the performance of the guards. On Pro Football Focus’ grading scale, Brown ranks 67th and Adams stands at 84th among 88 eligible NFL guards. This underperformance in the trenches has hindered Arizona’s ability to secure victories, especially in closing out games.
With Hernandez poised to return, the Cardinals hope to see a significant improvement in their offensive line’s effectiveness. His presence could provide the necessary stability and experience to turn the tide for an offense looking to build momentum as the season progresses.
As the team gears up for the upcoming games, fans and players alike are eager to see Hernandez back in action, ready to contribute to a team that is striving for success amidst adversity.
