The New York Giants had a productive free agency, bringing in new talent that could lead to more victories in the 2025 season. However, they fell short in addressing a few critical areas of need due to running out of cap space.
One such area was the right guard position. The Giants made an effort to improve there by targeting Will Fries, but they were ultimately outbid by the Minnesota Vikings. Still, there’s time for the Giants to find a late free-agent addition to strengthen the right guard spot.
The Giants addressed their tackle depth by signing James Hudson in free agency, but they still need reinforcements on the interior offensive line. As Matt Knox noted, bringing back a familiar face like Will Hernandez could be a smart move.
Hernandez, who was limited to just five games with the Cardinals last season due to a knee injury, was performing well before getting hurt. According to Pro Football Focus, he ranked 22nd among qualifying guards in pass protection in 2024.
A former second-round pick by the Giants in 2018, Hernandez could represent a meaningful upgrade for New York this offseason. The 29-year-old has developed into a solid starting guard and could strengthen the team’s pass-blocking unit.
Right now, Greg Van Roten is expected to start again at right guard after playing all 17 games last season for the Giants. While dependable and versatile—also playing center—Van Roten is 35, and a healthy Hernandez might offer more upside.
Over his seven-year career, Hernandez has played in 97 games with 91 starts. Even with last year’s injury, he’s been largely durable, ranking 24th among guards in total regular-season snaps (3,281) since 2021, per PFF.
Though his overall PFF grade since 2021 sits at 65.2—38th among 61 qualifying guards—his pass-blocking mark of 69.9 ranks 23rd. Since joining Arizona in 2022, Hernandez has earned a 76.0 pass-blocking grade, ninth among guards, and has allowed pressure on just 4.2% of pass-block snaps, the 17th-best rate.
Despite some concerns about his health and age, the Giants would be wise to consider a reunion. Signing Hernandez late in free agency could fill a key need before the NFL Draft and provide a reliable upgrade on the interior line.