Dolphins Select Mauigoa in SB Nation Mock Draft

New Miami coach Jim Hafley takes offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa with 11th overall pick.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 8:23pm

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting the Miami Dolphins' 2026 NFL Draft selection of offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa, with sharp geometric shapes and planes in the team's signature aqua, orange, and white colors.The Dolphins' selection of Francis Mauigoa signals a new era of physical, run-first football in Miami.Glendale Today

In the latest SB Nation Community Mock Draft, the Miami Dolphins selected offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa from the University of Miami with the 11th overall pick. The Dolphins, under new head coach Jim Hafley, are looking to rebuild their team from the inside out and Mauigoa is seen as a key piece to anchor their offensive line.

Why it matters

The Dolphins are in the midst of a major organizational overhaul, having fired former head coach Mike McDaniel. The selection of Mauigoa, a local product from the University of Miami, signals their intent to build a physical, run-first offense that can then open up the play-action passing game. Mauigoa is viewed as a potential cornerstone for Miami's offensive line for years to come.

The details

Mauigoa was once considered a potential top-5 pick, but a back injury may have caused his stock to drop slightly. Still, the Dolphins see him as an immediate starter at either right tackle or guard, with the ability to potentially take over at right tackle long-term if incumbent Austin Jackson continues to struggle with injuries.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place from April 23-25.

The players

Francis Mauigoa

A highly touted offensive tackle prospect from the University of Miami who could be an immediate starter on the Dolphins' offensive line.

Jim Hafley

The new head coach of the Miami Dolphins, hired to help lead the team's rebuilding efforts after the firing of Mike McDaniel.

Austin Jackson

The Dolphins' current starting right tackle, who has struggled with injuries throughout his career.

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What they’re saying

“Selecting Mauigoa starts the inside build with a player who could be either a right tackle or a guard at the NFL level- and played right into the Dolphins' draft needs. He immediately starts at guard, but is the primary backup to right tackle Austin Jackson, who has struggled with injuries throughout his career, if needed.”

— Kevin Nogle, The Phinsider's Site Manager

What’s next

The Dolphins will look to continue building their roster through the remainder of the 2026 NFL Draft, with an eye towards returning to contention in the AFC East.

The takeaway

The Dolphins' selection of Francis Mauigoa signals their commitment to rebuilding their team through the draft, with a focus on fortifying the offensive line to establish a physical, run-first identity under new head coach Jim Hafley.