Miami standout OT Francis Mauigoa entering NFL draft

Field Level Media|published: 01/22/2026, 5:27pm EST

Jan 8, 2026; Glendale, AZ, USA; Miami Hurricanes offensive lineman Francis Mauigoa (61) against the Mississippi Rebels during the 2026 Fiesta Bowl and semifinal game of the College Football Playoff at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Miami consensus All-American offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa announced Thursday that he's declaring for the NFL draft.

Mauigoa is expected to be among the top five selections, perhaps as high as No. 3.

Mauigoa dominated at right tackle this season and received the Jacobs Blocking Trophy, awarded to the top offensive lineman in the Atlantic Coast Conference. He started all 42 games of his three-year career.

"(To) the University of Miami, thank you for giving me the best three years of my life," Mauigoa said on Instagram. "Coach (Mario) Cristobal and Coach (Alex) Mirabal, thank you for giving me a once in a lifetime opportunity. The hard work and the culture y'all have instilled in me are something I will carry on for the rest of my life."

The 6-foot-6, 315-pound Mauigoa helped the Hurricanes win three College Football Playoff games before they lost 27-21 to Indiana in Monday's title game. Mauigoa made one of the key blocks at the line of scrimmage to help Mark Fletcher Jr. break free for a 57-yard touchdown run off right tackle.

--Field Level Media