Jets 2018 NFL Draft Profile: OG Will Hernandez

Here’s the 2018 NFL Draft profile on offensive guard Will Hernandez out of UTEP breaking down his strengths, weaknesses, video highlights, and if he would make sense for the New York Jets.

In this 2018 NFL Draft profile, we look at the 6’3” and 330-pound left guard Will Hernandez whose offensive presence on the line sets a physical tone and lays the ground rules from the first snap to the last whistle.

STRENGTHS

There are so many things right about this solid frame, physical left guard who refuses to let anything get passed him. Hernandez is blessed with the upper and lower body strength that allows him to rarely find himself pushed back into the quarterback as he is often the aggressor driving the interior lineman back into the second layer of defense.

Hernandez easily picks up speed into his blocks off the snap which allows him the velocity to assist in double teams and combination blocks. Great footwork, dexterity, and agility afford him the ability to move laterally in counter schemes on the right side of the line.

Out in open space, he comfortability forges a path for a patient runner or scrambling quarterback. Watching Hernandez on film is reminiscent of an over-protective big brother who has no problem reminding the bullies that they would have to make it past him first.

WEAKNESSES

There have been questions about his height and arm length. Excelling in other areas will counter this small weakness.

Kudos for Hernandez as a pass protector, as a run blocker however, his star is not as bright. Nonetheless, with minor adjustment driving linemen creating larger wholes, there’s no stopping him.

His excitement and burst off the snap causes him to shoot up high with his hands grabbing into the shoulder pads of defenders. Against bigger and stronger NFL linemen this may pose problems as their quickness and counter moves would throw Hernandez off balance and maybe even unfamiliar territory into the quarterback.

VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS

JETS PREDICTION

Hernandez is NFL ready. The guardian, great defender, and blind side protector, Hernandez started all 49 games of his career. Without a doubt, he is prepared for the next level and barring injury, should have a long career as a starter.

As there are many teams with need of a reliable guard to protect the quarterback, Hernandez should expect to be the first or second offensive lineman called to duty on day one. Unfortunately for the Jets, they’ll more than likely not draft Hernandez as chances are, they have their eyes on a future franchise quarterback with the No. 3 overall pick in this year’s draft.

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