Former Vikings draft crush is perfect trade deadline target for Minnesota

Leading up to the 2018 NFL Draft, there were a number of players Minnesota Vikings fans wanted their favorite team to select with its first-round pick. One of these players was former UTEP offensive guard Will Hernandez, but instead of using their top selection to improve their offensive line, the Vikings used the pick on former UCF cornerback Mike Hughes.

Seven years later, Minnesota is in the middle of a 4-0 season and Hernandez might be someone for them to consider making a deal for before this year's trade deadline on November 5.

Hernandez is currently starting at right guard for the Arizona Cardinals, which just happens to be one of the few positions the Vikings could look to improve before the trade deadline. Could Minnesota realistically make a deal for the veteran offensive lineman in the near future?

Trade for Arizona Cardinals RG Will Hernandez could help Minnesota Vikings solve interior OL problem

Hernandez's contract with the Cardinals is set to expire in 2025, and Arizona currently has a 1-3 record heading into Week 5. If the Cardinals continue to struggle, it wouldn't be surprising if they look to move some of the players with expiring contracts before this season's trade deadline.

Ed Ingram has started every game at right guard for the Vikings this year, but Hernandez would be a much better option at the position for Minnesota.

They both perform at a similar level when it comes to run blocking, but Hernandez is much better when it comes to protecting the quarterback. Ingram's PFF pass-blocking grade ranks 65th out of 68 qualifying guards in the NFL this season, while Hernandez's PFF pass-blocking grade this year has a much more respectable ranking at 23rd.

In the 2025 NFL Draft, the Vikings currently have two selections in the fifth round. If Minnesota is willing to part with one of these picks, it might just be enough to acquire Hernandez and improve one of the few weaknesses on their roster.

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