Francis Mauigoa Could Be the Anchor Arizona Needs at No. 3
This year’s NFL Draft might not have a slam-dunk, can’t-miss No. 1 overall prospect, but if you’re looking for one of the most polished, pro-ready players in the class, Miami offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa is firmly in that conversation. And as we inch closer to draft night, the buzz around Mauigoa heading to the Arizona Cardinals with the third overall pick is getting louder - and for good reason.
Let’s start with the production. Over the past two seasons, Mauigoa allowed just two sacks across 1,055 pass-blocking snaps.
That’s not just good - that’s elite. Especially when you consider the level of competition in the ACC and the fact that Miami’s quarterback situation has been anything but stable.
In three years, Mauigoa blocked for three different starting quarterbacks: Tyler Van Dyke in 2023, Cam Ward in 2024, and Carson Beck last season. That kind of turnover at the most important position on the field can wreak havoc on an offensive line.
Mauigoa didn’t flinch.
What makes Mauigoa so intriguing as a top-five pick isn’t just the pass protection, though. He’s a balanced, athletic right tackle with real power in the run game.
He can anchor against bull rushers and still get out in space and clear lanes in the second level. That versatility is what NFL teams crave, especially those trying to build a foundation up front.
Which brings us to the Arizona Cardinals.
Arizona holds the No. 3 overall pick, and with only the Raiders and Jets ahead of them, they’re in prime position to add a cornerstone piece. Assuming quarterback Fernando Mendoza goes early - as many expect - Mauigoa could be sitting right there for the taking. And for a franchise that’s been searching for stability, particularly on the offensive line, this is a move that makes a lot of sense.
General manager Monti Ossenfort is still in place, but this will be Mike LaFleur’s first draft as head coach. Known for his offensive mind, LaFleur would no doubt appreciate the value of locking down a premier tackle to protect whoever ends up under center in Arizona. Whether the Cardinals stick with their current quarterback or look to the future, having a guy like Mauigoa on the edge gives them a lot more flexibility - and a lot more security.
Let’s be real: Arizona hasn’t exactly been a destination franchise lately. They’ve cycled through coaches, struggled to find consistent quarterback play, and dealt with organizational instability.
But that’s the nature of the draft - top-tier talent often lands in tough situations. The question is, which players are built to thrive anyway?
Mauigoa looks like one of those guys. He’s got the physical tools, the technique, and the temperament to step in and contribute right away.
He’s not flashy, but he’s the kind of tone-setting pick that can help a new coach establish an identity. And in a division where you’re going to see elite pass rushers week in and week out, having a right tackle who can hold his own is more than just a luxury - it’s a necessity.
If Arizona passes on Mauigoa, don’t expect him to fall far. The New York Giants at No. 5 and the Cleveland Browns at No. 6 are both in the market for offensive line help, and a prospect with Mauigoa’s resume won’t be on the board long.
Bottom line: Francis Mauigoa might not be the flashiest name in this draft, but he could end up being one of the most important. And for a team like Arizona, looking to rebuild from the trenches out, that’s exactly the kind of player you bet on.