Francis Mauigoa is one of the most intriguing offensive linemen entering the 2026 NFL Draft. The Miami Hurricanes right tackle is not only ranked as one of the top offensive linemen in the draft but is projected as a potential top 5 pick by the likes of ESPN draft gurus Mel Kiper Jr and Field Yates.
What does draft analysts love about Mauigoa?
Well, in locking down the right side of the Hurricane’s offensive line through their ride to the national championship, this 6-foot-6, 315-pound O-line force exhibits both an explosiveness and power in his blocking ability that will have NFL teams in need of offensive line reinforcements clamoring for the agility, athleticism and overall potential he brings to the table.
Francis Mauigoa brings dominance to any offensive line
Francis Mauigoa is the top ranked offensive lineman per Yates’ latest ESPN Top 25 prospect rankings. Coming in at No. 4 on the list, the elite run blocking and pass protection of Mauigoa makes him an offensive lineman NFL teams will covet add dominance in the trenches.
Yates writes:
“Mauigoa put together an off-the-charts final season, as the right tackle was dominant in every sense of the word. He has a rock-solid frame, playing with terrific balance, good body control and a strong base. He is a road-grading run blocker with overwhelming power at the point of attack. Plus, Mauigoa has phenomenal pass protection skills with the lowest pressure percentage allowed out of all tackles in the FBS this season (1.2%). With light feet, he is always under control and a patient protector.”
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Noted as a big, physical mauler in every sense of the word, the consensus All-American should be the first offensive lineman off the board, it’s just a matter of how high he will go. With the skillset to be a pro bowl caliber lineman at the next level, the question will be whether that will be at the tackle position or at guard.
As a projected top 10 pick, here are 3 NFL fits for Francis Mauigoa in the 2026 NFL Draft.
3 NFL teams in position to land Francis Mauigoa
New York Giants
The New York Giants will have needs at right tackle and guard if Jermaine Eluemunor and Greg Van Roten leave in free agency. Even if they retain either or both, selecting a player like Francis Mauigoa will provide an upgrade at tackle. The Giants focus will be on strengthening the offensive line to protect Jaxson Dart. Mauigoa provides that protection from either position. He also brings attitude to the run game, which will make the duo of Tyrone Tracy Jr. and Cam Skattebo even more effective. With the No. 5 overall pick, Mauigoa could be the best player available
Other first round options for the Giants: Carnell Tate (WR), Arvell Reese (LB), Jordyn Tyson (WR)
Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals are another team with needs along the offensive line. The question is, will they take a player like Mauigoa as high as No.3. It will depend on the other draft needs and who is available once the Cardinals are on the board. If the choice is O-line, Mauigoa would secure the team’s potential void at right tackle and potentially guard with both Jonah Williams and Kelvin Beachum pending free agency. Again, it depends on whether the Cardinals will value Mauigoa over players like Rueben Bain Jr. and/or Caleb Downs if either are available at No. 3.
Other first round options for the Cardinals: Rueben Bain Jr. (EDGE), Caleb Downs (S), Ty Simpson (QB)
Detroit Lions
If Mauigoa slides past the top 10 in the draft, he won’t get past the Detroit Lions who are a team that will be looking to strengthen the offensive line. With the pending retirement of left tackle Taylor Decker, the Lions may be opted to move Penei Sewell from right tackle to left tackle and draft a tackle in the middle of the first round. The versatility of Mauigoa would be idea as he could also play either tackle position and he could also move to the interior and secure the team’s need at guard as well. This would be a long shot but given the needs of teams selecting ahead of the Lions, Mauigoa is a player who could be there when the Lions select.
Other first round options for the Lions: Spencer Fano (T), Keldric Faulk (CB), T.J. Parker (EDGE)