New York Giants rookie Francis Mauigoa is impressing coaches early at guard during practices. The 2026 first-round draft pick is adapting well after transitioning from right tackle at the University of Miami.
Key points
Francis Mauigoa is a rookie offensive lineman for the New York Giants.
He was a first-round draft pick in 2026.
Mauigoa primarily played right tackle in college at the University of Miami.
Coaches have praised his performance at guard during early practices.
He is adjusting to the transition from tackle to guard.
Mentioned in this story
Francis MauigoaUniversity of Miami
New York Giants
New York Giants rookie Francis Mauigoa shines early at guard
New York Giants rookie offensive lineman Francis Mauigoa is already making a strong impression at guard during his first practices with the team.
Primarily a right tackle at the University of Miami, the 2026 first-round draft pick has drawn early praise from coaches for looking like a natural inside.
Mauigoa acknowledged the significant adjustment required when moving from tackle to guard.
Giants select Arvell Reese
Giants select Francis Mauigoa
New York Giants select Colton Hood
Q&A
How is Francis Mauigoa performing at guard for the New York Giants?
Francis Mauigoa is making a strong impression at guard, receiving early praise from coaches for his natural ability in the position.
What position did Francis Mauigoa play at the University of Miami?
At the University of Miami, Francis Mauigoa primarily played as a right tackle before transitioning to guard with the New York Giants.
What challenges does Mauigoa face moving from tackle to guard?
Mauigoa acknowledged that moving from tackle to guard requires a significant adjustment in his playing style and responsibilities.
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New York Giants select Fields
Giants select Bobby Jamison-Travis
Giants select J.C. Davis
Giants select Jack Kelly
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New York Giants' 2026 rookie draft class
Giants select Arvell Reese
1 / 7
New York Giants' 2026 rookie draft class
Giants select Arvell Reese
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New York Giants' 2026 rookie draft class
Giants select Francis Mauigoa
3 / 7
New York Giants' 2026 rookie draft class
New York Giants select Colton Hood
4 / 7
New York Giants' 2026 rookie draft class
New York Giants select Fields
5 / 7
New York Giants' 2026 rookie draft class
Giants select Bobby Jamison-Travis
6 / 7
New York Giants' 2026 rookie draft class
Giants select J.C. Davis
7 / 7
New York Giants' 2026 rookie draft class
Giants select Jack Kelly
"That I don't have that much space to work with. Playing at tackle, you have all the space, where a guard, everything happens so fast. It’s not something I really need to work on; it’s something that I need to get used to," he said.
His smooth transition is no accident. Mauigoa credits extensive positional versatility developed under Miami offensive line coach Alex Mirabal. He practiced guard every year from his freshman season onward — during spring ball, summer workouts, and fall practices — and even took reps at center.
“Coach Mirabal believed in knowing all the positions. It makes sense. If you play all the positions, you make yourself valuable. Also, if you play right tackle, right guard, center, you know everything, you know everybody’s job, and it makes it easier for you versus playing at one position,” Mauigoa explained.
He has also sought guidance from experienced NFL voices. Mauigoa reached out to former Miami teammate Jalen Rivers, now playing guard for the Bengals, and worked with Jon Feliciano this offseason. One piece of advice from Feliciano resonated deeply.
“The game goes fast. There’s just level speed to each level. High school, there’s level speed, college is different level speed, and NFL will be top-level speed. Every day you’ve got to elevate your speed," he said.
With a humble and dedicated mindset, Mauigoa is focused on earning his place through relentless effort. His combination of physical tools, football intelligence, and proactive preparation positions him well to contribute immediately along the Giants’ offensive line in the upcoming season.
