Francis Mauigoa, a standout right tackle for the Miami Hurricanes, is expected to be one of the top contenders in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft set for next April. This stalwart of the Canes’ offensive line has proven his mettle on numerous occasions and is expected to continue to reinforce his standing with another robust season. The anticipation is that his consistent performance should secure him a hot spot in the initial round.
Recently, however, Mauigoa found himself positioned in the lower ranks in a list of the 50 best college football players. Pro Football Focus, which compiled the list, placed him as the 41st most talented player in the sport. Nevertheless, Mauigoa’s history at the right tackle – a position he has dominated since his premier season as a freshman – should not be overlooked.
As the Hurricanes’ true freshman season standout, Mauigoa has demonstrated considerable progression since 2024. Reflecting on his sophomore year stats, this former five-star recruit conceded just a pair of sacks and hits combined on 534 pass-blocking snaps – an outstanding performance that singles him out in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS).
Among FBS tackles with more than 500 pass-blocking snaps, Mauigoa boasts the least. Furthermore, his run-blocking grade since 2023 stands at 71.4, tying him in fourth place among Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) tackles. While there’s undoubtedly room for further development in his technical skills, Mauigoa enters the 2025 season standing tall as one of the primary prospects for the first offensive tackle to be drafted in the 2026 NFL event.
Pro Football Focus’ grading and data analysis, based on past performance and future potential, set him apart from the rest of the players. Their evaluation system also concurs with Mauigoa’s position as one of the most outstanding players nationally. In 2024, PFF credited Mauigoa with an overall offensive grade of 70.7, a commendable pass block rating of 72.2, and a run block score of 68.1.
Yet, when examining future prospects and untapped potential, it’s challenging to identify many players radiating more promise than Mauigoa. Although Jeremiah Smith, a wide receiver from Ohio State, is considered to have a similar degree of professional potential, it’s agreed among experts that few could surpass the ceiling that Mauigoa is predicted to reach.
As he readies for a successful upcoming junior season this fall, Mauigoa aspires to leverage his skills to advance the Canes one step closer to the playoffs. Simultaneously, he seeks to persuade lottery-pick scouts that he is a worthwhile investment, worthy of featuring prominently in their draft selections.
This journey is not just about showcasing his football prowess; it’s also about channeling the right motivations and maintaining a robust drive for excellence. There’s no doubt that Mauigoa’s journey holds lots of promise and potential.
Despite being ranked 41st by Pro Football Focus, he has consistently demonstrated why he could be one of the top draft picks in 2026 through his stellar performances. His remarkable evolution from his freshman season to his sophomore year sets him apart as one of the players to watch out for.
His statistics, such as the fewest sacks allowed in over 500 pass-blocking snaps and a commendable run-blocking grade of 71.4, place him among the elite company of ACC tackles. Making it one of the early round selections in the NFL Draft 2026 is just the next logical step in his promising career.
Pro Football Focus’s data-driven analysis gives Mauigoa an overall grade of 70.7, reflecting both his proven track record and his potential to grow. His pass block mark of 72.2 and run block mark of 68.1 in 2024 further attest to his skill and potential in football.
As he heads into his junior season, Mauigoa will be one to watch. How he performs here could be a significant determinant in whether or not he becomes the first offensive tackle selected in the 2026 NFL Draft.
But while rankings and data can provide some indication of a player’s potential, it’s Mauigoa’s determination and performance on the field that will ultimately shape his NFL future. The upcoming season could be the launchpad that catapults him towards his NFL aspirations, but at the moment, it’s all about how he navigates each match and the steps he takes to achieve his goals.
With the right mix of skills, determination and a strong performance in his junior season, Mauigoa could not only help the Canes reach the playoffs but also secure a high position in the NFL 2026 Draft. Time will tell how far this promising player will go, but for now, every football fan should have him on their radar.
Overall, Mauigoa represents the full package – exceptional skill, strong historical performance, and a bright future. Watch out for this player, because he is ready to take on the world and the 2026 NFL Draft could be his stepping stone to greatness.