Could Miami Hurricanes star Francis Mauigoa solidify the Miami Dolphins' rebuilt offensive line? ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. thinks so, projecting a local landing spot.
The Miami Hurricanes are one of a few Football Bowl Subdivision programs to share a stadium with an NFL organization. Coming off a National Championship appearance, the Miami Dolphins had a close look at the collective young talent on display from Hard Rock Stadium. The two-time Super Bowl organization enters a reset period after releasing several veterans, including Pro Bowler quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. They currently own the 11th pick in the upcoming NFL Draft.
In the latest mock by ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr., he predicts the Dolphins will select Hurricanes offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa. He’s coming off an All-American season: 1,034 offensive snaps played, two sacks, four hits, and 15 total pressures allowed in 16 games.
“One of the key components to a successful rebuild is shoring up the offensive tackle spots,” Kiper Jr. wrote. “Patrick Paul takes care of the left tackle spot, but there are questions at right tackle after Austin Jackson missed 11 games in 2025. Miami figures to have a run-heavy offense next season behind mobile quarterback Malik Willis and talented running back De'Von Achane, and Mauigoa would plow open some rushing lanes.”
The Dolphins allowed 38 sacks last season, which ranked 13th-most in the league. After resetting the roster, general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan will have an opportunity to strengthen the offensive line. Despite playing all 42 games at right tackle for the Hurricanes, Mauigoa could be moved within the interior, which Kiper Jr. believes sets a “Pro Bowl ceiling” for the 20-year-old.
The American Samoa native confirmed to meet with the Dolphins at the Scouting Combine, along with the Kansas City Chiefs, Cleveland Browns, and Cincinnati Bengals.
Mauigoa is a projected top-10 selection, but could experience a minor draft-day slippage due to concerning measurements. He listed at 6-5 1/4, weighing at 329 pounds, and measured with a 33 1/4 arm length. Also, Mauigoa attended Combine Rechecks on April 10 due to minor back issues.
These circumstances could open a pathway for the Hurricanes alumni not to have to leave South Florida. However, there’s no telling what’s going to happen until the picks are made.
Mauigoa was a tremendous factor in the Hurricanes' turnaround and could provide a similar impact for the Dolphins, if available at 11.
The first day of the NFL Draft is on Thursday, April 23, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Mauigoa will be present to walk the stage when called upon. It’s streaming on NFL Network, ESPN, and ABC.
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