Francis Mauigoa is the kind of offensive line prospect that gets NFL scouts circling dates on their calendars. At 6-foot-6, 315 pounds, the Miami Hurricanes right tackle isn’t just one of the top offensive linemen in the 2026 NFL Draft - he’s a legitimate top-five overall prospect, and for good reason. When you watch the tape, it’s clear: this guy doesn’t just block defenders, he erases them.
Mauigoa was a cornerstone for Miami’s offensive front during their run to the national championship, locking down the right side with a rare combination of power, balance, and athleticism. He’s not just big - he’s explosive. His ability to generate movement in the run game and hold his own against elite edge rushers in pass protection makes him one of the most complete linemen in this class.
A Dominant Force in the Trenches
According to ESPN’s latest Top 25 prospect rankings, Mauigoa checks in at No. 4 overall - the highest-rated offensive lineman on the board. That’s not just about potential; it’s about production. He posted the lowest pressure rate allowed among all FBS tackles this season at just 1.2%, a stat that speaks volumes about his pass protection chops.
He’s got the kind of traits that make offensive line coaches grin - a wide, stable base, excellent body control, and light feet for a man his size. He’s a patient protector who rarely gets caught off balance.
In the run game, he’s a tone-setter - a road grader who can drive defenders off the ball and finish blocks with authority. Whether he lines up at tackle or slides inside to guard at the next level, Mauigoa has Pro Bowl potential written all over him.
So where might he land? Let’s take a look at three NFL teams that could be in prime position to draft Mauigoa this April.
1. New York Giants (Pick No. 5)
The Giants are in a spot where offensive line help isn’t just a luxury - it’s a necessity. With veterans Jermaine Eluemunor and Greg Van Roten potentially heading to free agency, the team could be staring at holes on both the right side of the line. Even if one or both return, Mauigoa represents a clear upgrade in talent and long-term upside.
More importantly, the Giants are building around young quarterback Jaxson Dart, and protecting him has to be priority No. 1.
Mauigoa gives them that protection from day one. He also brings a physical edge to the run game that could elevate the backfield duo of Tyrone Tracy Jr. and Cam Skattebo.
If he’s on the board at No. 5, he could easily be the best player available - and the right fit for a franchise looking to get tougher in the trenches.
2. Arizona Cardinals (Pick No. 3)
Arizona has a few directions it could go with the third overall pick, but offensive line is definitely in play. Jonah Williams and Kelvin Beachum are both pending free agents, and the right tackle spot could open up fast. Mauigoa would step in and fill that void immediately - and potentially offer flexibility to move inside if needed.
The Cardinals are in the midst of a rebuild, and protecting their quarterback has to be part of the foundation. Mauigoa gives them a plug-and-play starter with the upside to anchor the line for years.
Whether they value him over other top prospects like Rueben Bain Jr. or Caleb Downs will depend on how the board falls, but Mauigoa is certainly in the conversation at No. 3.
3. Detroit Lions (Mid-to-Late First Round)
If Mauigoa somehow slips past the top 10 - and that’s a big “if” - the Detroit Lions would be ready to pounce. With Taylor Decker’s potential retirement looming, the Lions could shift Penei Sewell from right tackle to left tackle and look to fill the right side with a young, high-upside prospect. Mauigoa fits the bill.
What makes him especially appealing to Detroit is his versatility. He can play either tackle spot and has the skillset to kick inside to guard if needed.
That kind of flexibility is gold in today’s NFL, especially for a team like the Lions that values toughness and adaptability in the trenches. It’s a long shot that he falls this far, but if he does, Detroit would be getting a steal.
Bottom Line
Francis Mauigoa isn’t just one of the best offensive linemen in the draft - he’s one of the best players, period. He’s got the size, strength, and technique to step into an NFL lineup and make an impact from day one.
Whether he ends up at tackle or guard, his presence will be felt. Teams looking to build from the inside out would be wise to start with Mauigoa.
He’s not just a safe pick - he’s a potential franchise cornerstone.