When NFL players reach the OTA portion of the offseason, they are finally able to practice with a helmet -- the most basic of football equipment.

In high school, Jose De Leon just wanted a helmet he could wear.

The student from nearby Marcos de Niza had his sophomore season cut short after not finding a helmet that could safely protect and fit him. De Leon was frustrated. In the hope of keeping his football aspirations alive, he got in contact with the Cardinals.

Once his story became known around the team's facility, Cardinals guard Will Hernandez wanted to help.

"I understand what it's like to not have nice things or not have enough equipment for everybody," Hernandez said. "When I heard about this, every football player deserves to have a helmet that fits for them.

"I see a lot of myself in Jose. My goal is just to help as many people as I can. Especially when something's presented to you, I'm definitely going to take advantage of the situation."

Hernandez paid for De Leon to have his head scanned by Riddell so that the AXIOM helmet would fit him perfectly. Last week, Hernandez invited De Leon and his family to the Dignity Health Training Center to personally gift the helmet.

"It's going to be fun, and I can't wait to use it," De Leon said. "Finally I have a helmet and don't have to worry about anything but the game."

With the family at the Cardinals facility, Hernandez brought them into the showcase conference room where general manager Monti Ossenfort hosts contract signings. That was followed by a trip outside to see the practice fields.

The two exchanged follows on social media and Hernandez offered to provide guidance to the rising junior offensive and defensive lineman ahead of the season. Before they parted ways, Hernandez had one simple message: Let this be the cleanest the helmet will ever be.

"At the end of the day, that's the only thing I ask," Hernandez said. "I don't want any money. I don't want any of that. I just want him to put it into good use and make something happen with it."