Miami is fighting for a spot in the College Football Playoff down the stretch. It’s been an up-and-down year for the Hurricanes, with losses to Louisville and SMU. Despite those slip-ups in ACC play, Miami still has an outside shot to make the playoff. The Hurricanes have the most talented roster in the conference, including a stout offensive line. Right tackle Francis Mauigoa anchors their line, having been a starter for the past three seasons. Mauigoa was viewed as an NFL-caliber talent before ever playing a college snap, and he’s lived up to the hype. The upside is evident, but how does he fit along an NFL offensive line?
2026 NFL Draft: Francis Mauigoa Scouting Report
Measurables
Height- 6-foot-6
Weight- 335 pounds
Background
Mauigoa was a five-star recruit and the second-ranked offensive tackle in the Class of 2023. After playing high school ball at powerhouse IMG Academy (Florida), he chose to stay in South Florida and committed to play for Miami under Mario Cristobal. Mauigoa saw the field immediately, starting all 13 games at right tackle as a true freshman. He had some growing pains in 2023, allowing 23 pressures and five sacks. Mauigoa improved as a sophomore, blocking for eventual first-overall pick Cam Ward. His pass-blocking improved dramatically, allowing just one sack and 19 pressures in 2024. The progress he showed as a sophomore wasn’t a fluke; Maugioa has continued his upward trajectory in 2025. Through 11 games, he’s allowed just two sacks and nine pressures while posting an 87.6 PFF pass blocking grade.
Strengths
The first thing that stands out when watching Mauigoa is his effort. He plays with incredible tenacity, routinely finishing reps strong. His athleticism is exceptional for the position, which shows in his run blocking. Mauigoa excels at getting to the second level as a run blocker and has excellent recovery speed as a pass blocker. His durability also isn’t in question, as he has appeared in all 37 career games with the Hurricanes. Mauigoa has improved his pass blocking throughout his time in Coral Gables. His hand placement is impressive, displaying strong technique.
Weaknesses
Mauigoa is one of the few blue-chip prospects in the 2026 class, but there are still holes in his game. The biggest concern with Mauigoa is his arm length. This can lead to questions about his ability to line up against NFL pass rushers and win reps outside. His game may be best suited as a guard at the next level. Mauigoa can also improve at getting lower on reps.
Overview
Offensive tackles are a premium position when it comes to draft value. The 2026 NFL Draft is loaded with elite talent at the position. Mauigoa is among the top offensive tackle prospects, along with Spencer Fano and Kadyn Proctor. His combination of athleticism, durability, and aggressiveness makes him a virtual lock to be a first-round pick. The biggest question surrounding Mauigoa is where he’ll end up playing on Sundays. He’s been elite at right tackle in college, but NFL teams may view him better as a guard at the next level.
His draft stock is partially dependent on whether he is viewed as a tackle or guard. Interior linemen don’t have the same draft value as tackles, although Mauigoa likely won’t fall far regardless. His traits give him elite upside as a tackle, but even if he doesn’t pan out there, a team will be getting a Pro Bowl-caliber talent at guard.
Main Image: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
