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Where Miami's Francis Mauigoa could land in 2026 NFL Draft, latest mocks
TL;DR
Francis Mauigoa is a standout offensive lineman projected for the 2026 NFL Draft, known for his strength and movement. While he excels as a right tackle, concerns exist about his fit for left tackle positions.
Where Miami's Francis Mauigoa could land in 2026 NFL Draft, latest mocks originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Francis Mauigoa (pronounced mow-ee-Noah) is an absolute presence. Mauigoa is what an offensive lineman would look like if 'road grater' was his entire persona. His anchor and strength is unmatched in this draft class. When he sets, he is almost unmovable. Mauigoa is also has surprisingly good movement for a man his size.
Gap schemes and power concepts will be no concern for Mauigoa. Hand placement and lateral quickness are solid but not elite. However, those are aspects that can be developed at the next level. The concern with Mauigoa is the position on the line.
If a team at the top needs a right tackle specifically, he could be ideal. He could be Penei Sewel right now, at right tackle. For teams looking for a left tackle specifically, could be deterred as he's only played on the right side, with many analysts thinking he would be better at Guard.
Here's a look at where Mauigoa is projected to land in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Francis Mauigoa NFL Draft projections
ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr - No. 13 Los Angeles Rams
I had Jordyn Tyson here as their new WR3. Instead, I'm pivoting the Rams' selection to the right tackle position. Mauigoa started 42 games in college, over which time he put together some really good tape. He uses his strength to dominate pass rushers, and he can clear out running lanes. Warren McClendon Jr is under contract for only one more season, and run blocking is so important in the Rams' offense.
The Ringer's Todd McShay - No. 3 Arizona Cardinals
This comes down to Mauigoa or David Bailey, but Arizona prioritizes finishing its offensive line rebuild. The addition of Isaac Seumalo stabilizes left guard next to Paris Johnson Jr., leaving right tackle as the final hole. Mauigoa (6 feet, 5 1/2 inches and 329 pounds) moves people in the run game, and he’s a pretty awesome athlete for his size. The Cardinals are building a physical, downhill identity. Locking in the OL now sets the foundation for a future QB addition—whether that’s Ty Simpson this year or someone from the stronger 2027 class.
NFL Network's Rhett Lewis - No. 6 Cleveland Browns
I think the Browns entertain the idea of selecting Carnell Tate here but ultimately opt for the draft’s best offensive lineman. A foundational piece for the next decade, Mauigoa headlines Cleveland's reset along the O-Line.
ESPN's Peter Schrager - No. 5 New York Giants
New coach John Harbaugh referred to the offensive line as a "work in progress" at the league meetings. That's not what you want in front of a franchise quarterback who has shown a tendency to use his legs. But Jaxson Dart would love Mauigoa, a road paver with positional versatility. Mauigoa is expected to be the first offensive lineman off the board.
Yahoo Sports' Charles McDonald - No. 11 Miami Dolphins
Well, Miami is fielding a team this coming season because it has to, but the Dolphins have clearly punted on 2026 due to the massive chunk of dead cap sitting on their books. As always, grabbing trench talent is a good way to set up for future success. Here the Dolphins can stay local and grab the talented Mauigoa, who could play long-term at guard or tackle. If they’re going to hold De’Von Achane hostage, at least give him a bodyguard.
CBS Sports' Garrett Podell - No. 3 Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals are filling out their offensive ecosystem for whichever quarterback they select in the 2027 NFL Draft. They have enough receiving and rushing options following the signing of Tyler Allgeier to complement James Conner, but they have a need at right tackle. Francis Mauigoa is a massive right tackle with sound technique, particularly in the run game, and he would fill a void at that position for Arizona.
The Athletic's Dane Brugler Big Board ranking - No. 2 OT
Mauigoa is a durable blocker with coordinated movements, excellent play strength and the finishing mentality to match. Though his college tape says he can stay outside at right tackle, his skill set would be maximized inside at guard in the NFL.
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Q&A
What position does Francis Mauigoa play and what are his strengths?
Francis Mauigoa plays as an offensive lineman, known for his unmatched strength and solid movement for his size.
Why might teams be hesitant to draft Mauigoa as a left tackle?
Teams may be hesitant to draft Mauigoa as a left tackle because he has primarily played on the right side and many analysts believe he would be better suited for a guard position.
How does Mauigoa compare to other offensive linemen in the 2026 NFL Draft?
Mauigoa is considered a top prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft, with some analysts comparing him to Penei Sewell, particularly for his potential as a right tackle.
What are the concerns regarding Mauigoa's skills as an offensive lineman?
Concerns about Mauigoa's skills include his hand placement and lateral quickness, which, while solid, are not considered elite and may need development at the next level.
