Cardinals Re-Sign Will Hernandez: Key Impact & Next Steps

Breaking News: Will Hernandez Stays in the Desert

Hey Cardinals fans! Big news coming out of Arizona as Will Hernandez is officially returning to the team on a 1-year deal, according to reports from Jordan Schultz. This is a significant move for the Cardinals as they look to solidify their offensive line and provide much-needed protection for their quarterback. Hernandez, a seasoned veteran, brings a wealth of experience and a physical presence to the Cardinals' front, making him a valuable asset in both the running and passing game. This re-signing addresses a crucial need for the team, especially considering the departures and uncertainties surrounding other offensive linemen. Getting Hernandez back in the fold provides stability and allows the coaching staff to build around a known quantity. His familiarity with the system and his teammates will be a huge advantage as the team prepares for the upcoming season. The move signals a commitment from the Cardinals to improve their offensive line, an area that has been a point of concern in recent years. By bringing back Hernandez, they are adding a player who can step in and contribute immediately, providing a sense of continuity and leadership. Plus, for those of you who follow the ins and outs of NFL contracts, this one-year deal is a smart move, giving both the team and the player flexibility moving forward. It allows Hernandez to prove his worth and potentially secure a longer-term contract, while also allowing the Cardinals to evaluate their long-term needs on the offensive line. So, what does this mean for the Cardinals' overall strategy? Let's dive deeper into the implications of this re-signing and what it could mean for the team's chances in the competitive NFC West. We'll break down Hernandez's strengths, his fit within the Cardinals' scheme, and how this move impacts the rest of the offensive line. Stay tuned, guys, because this is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting season for the Cardinals!

Why Re-Signing Hernandez Was a Smart Move for the Cardinals

When you look at the Cardinals' offensive line situation, re-signing Will Hernandez makes a ton of sense. The guy is a proven commodity in the league, and his experience and toughness are exactly what this team needs. The offensive line is the backbone of any successful NFL team. It's the engine that drives the offense, providing the quarterback with time to throw and opening up running lanes for the running backs. A weak offensive line can derail even the most talented offensive players, while a strong line can elevate the entire team's performance. The Cardinals have struggled with consistency on the offensive line in recent years, and adding a player like Hernandez helps to address that issue. Hernandez brings a level of physicality and grit to the line that is essential for success in the NFL. He's not afraid to mix it up in the trenches and is known for his run-blocking ability. This is particularly important for the Cardinals, who want to establish a strong running game to take pressure off their quarterback. Beyond his physical attributes, Hernandez also brings valuable leadership and experience to the locker room. He's been in the league for several years and has seen it all. He can serve as a mentor to the younger players on the offensive line and help them develop their skills. His presence will also bring a sense of stability to the line, which is crucial for building chemistry and cohesion. Think about it – the offensive line is a unit that needs to work together seamlessly. Having a veteran like Hernandez who understands the nuances of the game and can communicate effectively with his teammates is a huge asset. The one-year deal structure is also a smart move for the Cardinals. It allows them to assess Hernandez's performance and fit within the team before committing to a longer-term contract. It also gives Hernandez an opportunity to prove his worth and potentially earn a more lucrative deal in the future. It’s a win-win situation for both parties. By re-signing Hernandez, the Cardinals are sending a clear message that they are serious about improving their offensive line and building a competitive team. This move provides immediate help and also sets the stage for future success.

Hernandez's Impact on the Cardinals' Offensive Line and Overall Strategy

The impact of Will Hernandez returning to the Cardinals goes beyond just filling a spot on the roster; it's about injecting a dose of physicality and experience into a unit that desperately needs it. Let's be real, guys, a strong offensive line is the unsung hero of any successful football team. They're the ones in the trenches, battling it out every play, creating the space for the running game to thrive and giving the quarterback the time he needs to make plays. Without a solid O-line, even the most talented skill position players can struggle. Hernandez’s presence provides immediate help and has a ripple effect, influencing the entire offensive strategy. With Hernandez in the lineup, the Cardinals can be more confident in their ability to run the ball effectively. A strong running game not only helps to control the clock and keep the opposing offense off the field but also opens up opportunities in the passing game. When defenses have to respect the run, it creates more favorable matchups for the receivers and gives the quarterback more time to find them downfield. Hernandez excels in run-blocking, using his size and strength to create lanes for the running backs. This will be particularly beneficial for the Cardinals' running backs, who will have more room to operate and make plays. His ability to move defenders off the line of scrimmage will be a welcome sight for both the running backs and the coaching staff. Moreover, Hernandez's presence will also have a positive impact on the Cardinals' passing game. By providing solid pass protection, he'll give the quarterback more time to survey the field and make accurate throws. A quarterback who feels confident in his protection is a quarterback who can make better decisions and deliver the ball with precision. This is crucial in today's NFL, where the passing game is so important. The addition of Hernandez also allows the Cardinals to be more versatile in their offensive play-calling. They can run the ball more effectively, but they can also mix in play-action passes and other schemes that rely on a strong offensive line. This versatility will make the Cardinals' offense more difficult to defend and give them a competitive edge. It's not just about the Xs and Os, though. Hernandez's experience and leadership will also be invaluable to the Cardinals' offensive line. He's a veteran who has been through the battles, and he can help mentor the younger players on the line. His presence will bring a sense of stability and confidence to the unit, which is essential for building chemistry and cohesion. In short, the re-signing of Will Hernandez is a significant move for the Cardinals that will have a positive impact on both their running and passing game. He brings physicality, experience, and leadership to the offensive line, making him a valuable asset to the team.

What's Next for the Cardinals After Hernandez Re-Signing?

So, with Will Hernandez back in the fold, what's the next move for the Arizona Cardinals? This re-signing is a solid piece of the puzzle, but it's definitely not the whole picture. The Cardinals still have work to do to build a team that can compete in the tough NFC West. First off, let's talk about the rest of the offensive line. While Hernandez brings stability and experience to the guard position, the Cardinals need to continue to evaluate and address the other spots on the line. Are there any other free agents they should be targeting? What about the draft? The Cardinals need to ensure they have depth and talent across the entire offensive line to withstand injuries and maintain a high level of performance throughout the season. They need to identify players who fit their scheme and can contribute both in the running and passing game. The draft is a crucial opportunity to add young talent to the roster, and the Cardinals should be looking to potentially add more offensive line help. This is an area where they can invest in the future and build a strong foundation for years to come. Beyond the offensive line, the Cardinals also have other needs to address on both sides of the ball. They need to evaluate their quarterback situation, add playmakers at the wide receiver position, and bolster their defense. The quarterback position is always a key focus, and the Cardinals need to determine who will be leading their offense in the future. They may look to the draft or free agency to find their next franchise quarterback. Adding weapons at wide receiver is also a priority. A dynamic receiving corps can make a huge difference in the passing game, and the Cardinals need to ensure they have enough talent at this position. On defense, the Cardinals need to continue to add playmakers at all levels. They need to be able to pressure the quarterback, stop the run, and cover effectively in the secondary. Building a strong defense is essential for competing in the NFL, and the Cardinals need to make sure they have the personnel in place to do so. The Cardinals also need to continue to build a strong team culture and develop their young players. Coaching and leadership are crucial for success in the NFL, and the Cardinals need to ensure they have the right people in place to guide their team. Developing young players is also essential for building a sustainable winning program. The Cardinals need to identify and nurture their young talent to ensure they have a pipeline of players who can contribute in the future. In conclusion, the re-signing of Will Hernandez is a positive step for the Cardinals, but it's just one piece of the puzzle. The team needs to continue to address their needs on both sides of the ball and build a strong team culture to compete in the NFC West.

This move shows they're serious about protecting their quarterback and establishing a strong running game. What do you guys think? Let's discuss in the comments!