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New York Giants draft Will Hernandez: Instant grade and analysis

By Brad Weiss

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 01: UTEP offensive lineman Will Hernandez answers questions from the media during the NFL Scouting Combine on March 1, 2018 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, IN. (Photo by Zach Bolinger/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 01: UTEP offensive lineman Will Hernandez answers questions from the media during the NFL Scouting Combine on March 1, 2018 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, IN. (Photo by Zach Bolinger/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /
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The New York Giants selected Will Hernandez in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft. Here’s all you need to know about Hernandez, including our grade.

Strengths

Hernandez was a four-year starter at UTEP, where he played in 37 games after redshirting back in 2013. One of the strongest offensive lineman in this draft class, Hernandez put on a show during the NFL Scouting Combine, putting up 225 pounds on the bench press 37 times. He also showed good feet, and ran the 40-yard dash in 5.15 seconds.

While he does have good footwork, it is his strength that really sets him apart. As a blocker, he is one of the best in this draft class in the run game, and his quick feet enable him to get back in pass protection. He also has tremendous passion for the game, and has some of the best work ethic of any player in this draft.

Hernandez has all the intangibles you look for in an offensive guard, and some scouts feel he will be a perennial Pro Bowl player. In terms of offensive guards in this draft class, Hernandez ranks behind only Quenton Nelson from Notre Dame.

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Weaknesses

When it comes to Hernandez, there is one weakness that stands out. While he has the feet, and the strength to be an All-Pro at the next level, scouts are worried about his height, and length. In fact, long arm defenders are able to get separation due to Hernandez having shorter arms, and that could be a serious problem in the NFL.

In addition, Hernandez is often too quick to make the first move, and can sometimes find himself in trouble. He needs to have some extra discipline when he gets to the NFL, or else teams are going to capitalize on his aggressiveness. These are things that can be worked on at the next level, where he is going to be a dominant player for many years.

Outside of the arms, and the height, Hernandez appears to be one of the safer picks in the early rounds of the NFL Draft.

Grade

Grade: A+

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