William Hernandez Bio
William Hernandez is an American football offensive lineman for the Arizona Cardinals of the National Football League (NFL). Known for his strong play at both guard positions, he made a name for himself in college football at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP). After being drafted in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft by the New York Giants, Hernandez quickly established himself as a starting player, earning a spot on the Pro Football Writers of America All-Rookie Team in his first season. He has since signed with the Arizona Cardinals, maintaining a key role in the team’s offensive line.
Early Life and Background
William Hernandez was born on September 2, 1995, in Las Vegas, Nevada, to a Mexican family. He attended Chaparral High School in Paradise, Nevada, where he was a four-year letterman and three-year starter on the football team. Initially, Hernandez quit football after his freshman year to work as a manager for his father’s construction company. However, he was persuaded to return to the team before his junior year by his head coach, who recognized his potential. During his senior year, he excelled as an all-Nevada offensive lineman and all-conference defensive end, starting all games at right guard and contributing significantly on defense.
Path to American Football
Despite being a zero-star recruit, Hernandez received walk-on offers from several colleges but ultimately accepted a scholarship from UTEP, the only school to offer him a chance. He redshirted his first year at UTEP in 2013 but quickly became a starter as a redshirt freshman, starting every game for the remainder of his collegiate career. Over 49 games from 2014 to 2017, he earned accolades such as Second-team All-American and First-team All Conference USA. Despite UTEP’s struggles during the 2017 season, Hernandez was recognized as a standout player and was invited to the College Football All-Star Challenge and participated in the NFL Combine.
William Hernandez Career
Early Career (2018-2021)
The New York Giants selected William Hernandez in the second round (34th overall) of the 2018 NFL Draft, making him the second guard drafted that year. On May 12, 2018, he signed a four-year contract worth $7.45 million, which included $5.08 million guaranteed. Hernandez was named the starting left guard for the Giants in his rookie season, starting all 16 games and earning a place on the Pro Football Writers of America All-Rookie Team.
Breakthrough (2022-Present)
In March 2022, Hernandez signed a one-year contract with the Arizona Cardinals. He faced challenges during his first season, including an ejection in a game against the Carolina Panthers and a pectoral injury that placed him on injured reserve. However, he was activated later that season and continued to play a significant role on the offensive line. On March 15, 2023, Hernandez signed a two-year contract extension with the Cardinals worth up to $9 million, with $4.5 million guaranteed. He maintained his starting right guard position throughout the 2023 season. Unfortunately, he suffered a knee injury in Week 5 of the 2024 season, which was announced to be season-ending, leading to his placement on injured reserve.
Notable Works and Milestones
William Hernandez’s career is marked by his consistent performance as a starting offensive lineman. He has been recognized for his contributions to the teams he has played for, including being named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 2018 and earning various collegiate honors during his time at UTEP.
William Hernandez Award Nominations
Throughout his career, William Hernandez has received several nominations and accolades, including his selection to the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 2018 and being named a Second-team All-American in 2017.
William Hernandez Awards Won
William Hernandez has achieved notable recognition in his career, including being named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 2018 and receiving First-team All Conference USA honors in 2017.
William Hernandez Family
Information regarding William Hernandez’s family is not publicly available.
Personal Life
Details about William Hernandez’s personal life, including marital status and children, are not disclosed in public records.
