The Cincinnati Bengals could still upgrade their interior offensive line this offseason, since that is the weakest link of the offensive line. Third-round pick Dylan Fairchild will compete against Cordell Volson for the left guard position, while free-agent acquisition Lucas Patrick and Cody Ford will battle for the right guard spot. With approximately $29 million in cap space, the Bengals can afford to bring in a big-name free agent.
Highlighting one of the top free agent interior offensive linemen is a former second-round pick, recovering from a major injury.
The Cincinnati Bengals’ target is recovering from a season-ending injury
Will Hernandez suffered a season-ending ACL tear in Week 5 as a member of the Arizona Cardinals, typically requiring a nine-to-twelve-month recovery time. He is considered one of the top free-agent interior offensive linemen available. However, Hernandez has yet to sign as he awaits full medical clearance, 9.5 months removed from the injury.
Cincinnati Bengals’ offensive line target officially cleared to play
On Instagram, Will Hernandez announced on Monday night that he has been fully cleared to play. As a result, he is expected to garner interest from many teams that could use an upgrade to their interior offensive line. The Bengals could be one of the teams to inquire about Hernandez in the coming week.
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Fans react to the news
Please Bengals. Please
— Alex McCoy (@AlexBMcCoy17) July 29, 2025
@Bengals keep Joe upright
— Joey Meza (@HTownBengals) July 29, 2025
Bengals or Dolphins, surely??
— PhilWooltortonRenouf (@philip_renouf) July 29, 2025
Wake up @Bengals !
— Chris (@Cwilli_10) July 29, 2025
@Bengals please please sign him. We need to protect the franchise and right now the guys at guard are at best backups.
— Ryan Campbell (@The_Cambo) July 29, 2025
