Francis Mauigoa, ready to die protecting the quarterback. This elite lineman brings unmatched grit to the Big Apple, aiming to dominate trenches for the New York Giants.
The Miami Hurricanes went back-to-back years with a top-10 NFL Draft selection after consensus First Team All-American Francis Mauigoa was selected 10th by the New York Giants. He looks to deliver elite protection for quarterback Jaxson Dart, willing to take extreme measures.
“I’m ready to die for you man,” he said.
Mauigoa played a pivotal role in the Hurricanes' identity of dominating matchups in the trenches. In 1,034 total offensive snaps played, he only allowed 15 pressures, three hits, and two sacks in 16 games last season. Mauigoa showed durability throughout three collegiate seasons, starting in 42 consecutive games. The 20-year-old looks to play with a chip on his shoulder.
“You got to play with attitude,” he said. “That’s the way football is meant to be. You got to play with attitude, you got to play urgency. At the NFL level, people are gunning for your job. I’m [going] make sure I do whatever it takes to take care of my family.”
The Giants finished 10th with 48 sacks allowed last season. Dart missed two games in concussion protocol later in the year after getting swarmed by the Chicago Bears’ pass-rushing unit in a week 10 matchup loss. The Giants’ offense can’t run its course if the offensive line cant’ protect it’s young, promising star.
Mauigoa played a pivotal role in the Hurricanes’ run game, especially in the College Football Playoffs, when program star Mark Fletcher Jr. rushed for a record-breaking 507 yards. He looks to create the same gaps for Cam Skattebo.
Despite playing all three collegiate seasons at right tackle, Giants Senior Vice President and General Manager Joe Schoen confirmed that Mauigoa will play at guard. The prospect showed no contest in the idea of moving positions. Entering the draft, Mauigoa attended a Combine medical recheck due to a minor disc injury. After further imaging, there were no new concerns or issues found, including confirmation that surgery isn’t urgently needed.
Schoen confirmed the injury occurred in the College Football Playoffs, first round, against the Texas A&M Aggies. Regarding the injury, it was a “comfortable” decision.
“Right now he’s fine,” Schoen added. “He’s good right now.”
The Giants are viewed as one of the early winners of the draft after selecting Mauigoa and Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Arvell Reese. Coming off a 4-13 season and hiring John Harbaugh as the new head coach, the organization seeks to complete a significant turnaround.
Mauigoa elevated the Hurricanes’ contention status and looks to do the same in New Jersey on Sundays.
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