Los Angeles Rams potential first-round pick, Francis Mauigoa, has drawn comparisons to this All-Pro tackle.
The Los Angeles Rams hold two first-round picks in this year's NFL draft, and the team has not had that luxury since the 2014 NFL Draft, where they held the No. 2 and No. 14 pick.
This season, L.A. possesses the No. 13 and No. 29 picks, and while there's a chance they could trade those picks, all signs point to them using them on top prospects.
The Rams could go a multitude of ways with the picks, from a quarterback, running back, cornerback, or even an offensive lineman. The offensive line is not a pressing need for the Rams, but it's always great to have a formidable one, especially with 38-year-old Matthew Stafford at the helm.
L.A. could easily grab one of the top offensive linemen in the draft, and one name they've been linked to is Miami Hurricanes offensive tackle, Francis Mauigoa.
Mauigoa is widely regarded as one of the top prospects in the draft and arguably the best offensive tackle in the class. Any team would be fortunate to land him, given his talent and upside. He recently drew comparisons to Penei Sewell, the All-Pro cornerstone of the Detroit Lions.
Mauigoa has been recently mocked to the Rams with the No. 13 overall pick. Certain mock drafts have him going from No. 3 overall to No. 14 overall.
The 20-year-old has established himself as a premier player. He is a highly experienced and durable three-year starter with the Hurricanes. Mauigoa excelled in pass protection and the run game.
If he were to land in L.A., he would have an immediate impact on the team, which is expected to do whatever it takes to be the last team standing.
NFL draft analysis Lance Zierlein noted how he loves Mauigoa's frame and hands.
"Highly touted prospect who met expectations as a durable three-year starter at right tackle. Mauigoa has a guard's broad build, but he moves like a tackle in pass sets. He’s highly experienced with an impressive football IQ that pops on tape. He has good contact balance and a strong core. He delivers firm first contact but excessive leaning diminishes not only his leverage and sustain as a run blocker but also his ability to deal with spin counters when protecting.
"He’s good at trapping rushers at the turn and can smother their momentum. He has the footwork, anchor and punch timing to diversify his pass-set approach. He works with an innate feel for pocket depth and is rarely out-paced to the top by speed. Mauigoa has a high ceiling but the leaning must be eradicated. He’ll be an early starter at right tackle but a move to guard could be on the table in the future."
The Rams could greatly benefit from a player like Mauigoa for years to come.