#3 – OG Will Hernandez
The New York Giants are planning to start their second-round pick, Will Hernandez, at left guard in Week 1.
The decision is no surprise. Hernandez was considered one of the best offensive linemen in this year’s draft class. Most analysts projected him to be off the board before Big Blue second-round selection.
Luckily for the Giants, the 6-foot-2, 327-pound “Hog Molly” was still available at No. 34 overall. Hernandez was arguably the second best offensive lineman in this year’s class behind only Quenton Nelson.
He earned Pro Football Focus’ highest single-season grade (95.2) for a guard in college and is expected to immediately help in pass protection.
Led by UTEP's Will Hernandez, these offensive guards had no trouble keeping pressure off their quarterback. pic.twitter.com/gL67xUcAIz
— PFF College (@PFF_College) December 16, 2017
The Giants had a first-round grade on the UTEP offensive lineman. Gettleman said after the selection that Hernandez was exactly what the Giants were looking for.
Hernandez posted the most bench reps (37) of any offensive linemen at the NFL Scouting Combine. He also has quick feet, recording the seventh best three-cone drill time (7.59 seconds) in Indianapolis.
Hernandez brings a toughness and work ethic to New York’s offensive line. He may not compile stats like a wide receiver, running back, or pass rusher. But that doesn’t diminish how he can instantly help the Giants this upcoming season.