The New York Giants selected Francis Mauigoa, an offensive tackle from the University of Miami, with the No. 10 pick in the 2026 NFL draft. Here are seven key insights about his background and journey.
Key points
New York Giants selected Francis Mauigoa
Mauigoa is an offensive tackle
He was picked No. 10 in the 2026 NFL draft
Played for the University of Miami
Has humble island roots and a Samoan nickname
Francis MauigoaUniversity of MiamiNew York Giants
New York Giants select Francis Mauigoa: 7 things to know about the OL
The New York Giants selected University of Miami offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa with the No. 10 pick in the 2026 NFL draft.
Here are seven insights into the talented lineman’s background and journey.
Humble island roots and a Samoan nickname
Born on June 4, 2005, in the small coastal village of ‘Ili’ili, American Samoa (population around 3,000), Mauigoa grew up in a tight-knit Polynesian community. Family and friends call him “Sisi,” and he takes great pride in his heritage, often representing his roots by wearing a traditional ‘Ula Fala necklace and sharing Samoan words with teammates.
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Q&A
Who is Francis Mauigoa and what position does he play?
Francis Mauigoa is an offensive tackle selected by the New York Giants in the 2026 NFL draft.
What pick did the New York Giants use to select Francis Mauigoa?
The New York Giants selected Francis Mauigoa with the No. 10 pick in the 2026 NFL draft.
What college did Francis Mauigoa play for before joining the NFL?
Francis Mauigoa played for the University of Miami before being drafted into the NFL.
What are some key facts about Francis Mauigoa's background?
Francis Mauigoa has humble island roots and is known by a Samoan nickname, reflecting his cultural heritage.
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Improvised beginnings in American Samoa
As a child, Mauigoa and his friends lacked proper football equipment and creatively cut up slippers to make makeshift knee and thigh pads. Opportunities on the island were limited, and football became a rare pathway to education and a better life. He has said that without the sport, he is unsure he would have attended college.
A football family that moved for support
Mauigoa comes from a large family of seven siblings raised on faith, family, and respect. His parents, Fa’alialia and Telesia, relocated from American Samoa (via Hawaii) to South Florida to stay close to him and his brother while they played at Miami. The entire family, including siblings, made the college decision together in a group vote during a gathering in Hawaii.
Brotherly bond with NFL talent
His older brother Francisco “Kiko” Mauigoa played linebacker at Miami and was drafted by the New York Jets in 2025. Another brother, Frederick, was a three-year starting center at Washington State. The brothers share a close bond filled with on-field trash talk and mutual inspiration.
High school success and versatility
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Mauigoa returned to American Samoa and played for Tafuna High School. As a sophomore, he helped the team go undefeated and win a championship while primarily lining up on the defensive line. In addition to football, he played club volleyball in high school and earned second-team all-conference honors.
Giving back through success
Through his achievements and NIL opportunities at Miami, Mauigoa and his brother have been able to support their family in meaningful ways, including helping their parents retire and providing for the household so they could relocate closer to campus.
A quiet yet powerful presence
Mauigoa describes himself as a “silent storm” on the field—humble and respectful off it, yet dominant in competition. He models his calm demeanor after legendary Samoan NFL players like Troy Polamalu while channeling intense power between the whistles.
