The Arizona Cardinals‘ 24-23 win over the San Francisco 49ers came with a significant setback. Starting right guard Will Hernandez suffered a knee injury during the game that will sideline him for the rest of the season, according to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo.
Hernandez will soon be placed on injured reserve, joining starting right tackle Jonah Williams, who also sustained a knee injury in Week 1. Williams’ return this season remains uncertain.
Hernandez was injured early in the fourth quarter when 49ers defensive end Nick Bosa inadvertently rolled up on him during a play. After being examined by trainers, Hernandez walked off the field but did not return to the game.
Hernandez has been a key player for the Cardinals, ranking sixth in run block win rate and 18th in pass block win rate among interior offensive linemen, per ESPN. His absence is a big blow to Arizona’s offensive line.
Backup lineman Trystan Colon stepped in for Hernandez and performed admirably, not allowing a single pressure in 20 snaps. Colon had previously played six offensive snaps at center this season and logged 322 snaps at left guard in 2023, where he allowed two sacks, one quarterback hit, and six hurries.
The Cardinals also have Jon Gaines II and rookie Isaiah Adams as potential options for offensive line depth moving forward.
Hernandez is in the final year of his contract, which pays him $3.2 million this season. His injury creates uncertainty about his future with the team, as he was poised to enter free agency in 2024.
