New York Giants offensive guards Will Hernandez and Kevin Zeitler praise one another as they head into year No. 1 as teammates.
The 2019 New York Giants will bring back plenty of familiar faces. The offensive line, however, showcases plenty of new blood.
Left tackle Nate Solder, left guard Will Hernandez, right tackle Chad Wheeler remain on the roster, while centers Spencer Pulley and Jon Halapio were both re-signed. The Giants also signed tackle Mike Remmers and traded for guard Kevin Zeitler this offseason.
While the Giants offensive line was sub-par last year, they’ll be looking to combine experience with talent in order to improve greatly in 2019.
Two of the unsung leaders of the offensive line will be Hernandez and Zeitler, who will man the guard spots. Speaking with Dan Salomone of the Giants official website, Hernandez praised Zeitler for representing great mentorship on and off the field.
“He’s been phenomenal, not only as a player but as a teacher, too,” Hernandez said. “He’s taught a lot of young guys, including myself, a lot of technique. He was one of the top pass protectors in the league last year, so he definitely has a lot to offer and he’s passing it on to the young guys, myself also, and we’re really glad to have him.”
Hernandez started every game as a rookie last year, and really came into his own and improved as the season went on. He was a bright spot on an offensive line that allowed 47 sacks on the year.
Even though Zeitler was a Cleveland Brown last year, and only recently became teammates with Hernandez, he’s already seeing the effort that the second-year pro is putting in.
“He wants to work and he wants to get better every day,” Zeitler said. “I think that’s just the basis of someone who wants to be good in this league.”
