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NFC rookie OL midseason grades: Lions strike gold, Eagles may have Lane Johnson's heir

Which of these rookie offensive linemen in the NFC have had the best start to the season?
BySimon Shortt
Detroit Lions rookie offensive tackle Blake Miller has emerged as one of the NFC's top first-year offensive linemen through six weeks of the 2026 NFL season.
Detroit Lions rookie offensive tackle Blake Miller has emerged as one of the NFC's top first-year offensive linemen through six weeks of the 2026 NFL season. | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
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Giants' Francis Mauigoa is already looking like a first-round hit

Francis Mauigoa has enjoyed a strong start to his rookie season for the New York Giants
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

Grade: B

The New York Giants drafted Francis Mauigoa with the 10th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. The college right tackle was a good candidate to play guard in the NFL, and the fit between Mauigoa and the Giants was perfect.

So far this season, the Giants have to be feeling really good about their selection. Mauigoa already looks like a seasoned pro, especially in pass protection. Mauigoa's technique, anchor, hand use, and balance really stand out. Other than a handful of plays, Mauigoa keeps a clean pocket for whoever is playing quarterback for New York.

The run game isn't a negative for Mauigoa, but it leaves you wanting more. Mauigoa is strong enough to maintain his block and, at times, even create a lane for the back to run through, but he doesn't generate a lot of push on his own. So usually he's just keeping his defender out of the play as best he can.

Usually, he's just keeping his defender out of the play as best he can.

He also looks good as a puller or climbing to the second level in the run game, which is good to see. His balance on the go was a strength in his scouting profile, just as it was in pass protection.

But once Mauigoa is ready for a block in space, he again doesn't bring much pop. As a puller, he can make the block and keep his man out of the play, just like from his interior spot. And when he's out at the second level, he can occasionally get hands on a smaller defender, but usually he's just running interference.

And when he's out at the second level, he can occasionally get his hands on a smaller defender, but usually he's just running interference.

Mauigoa gets a strong grade for his early and positive returns in the passing game, while at least being neutral in the run game.

Final verdict: Mauigoa has already demonstrated the pass-protection skills of a dependable NFL starter. Improving his ability to generate movement in the run game could push his grade even higher.

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