Chiefs Draft Miami Tackle to Bolster Mahomes' Protection

Francis Mauigoa could be the key to shoring up the offensive line in Kansas City.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 8:15pm

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The Kansas City Chiefs are looking to address their offensive line issues in the upcoming NFL Draft, with a focus on better protecting star quarterback Patrick Mahomes. In a recent mock draft, the Chiefs are projected to select Miami tackle Francis Mauigoa with their first-round pick, a move that could help shore up the offensive line after Mahomes was sacked 34 times in just 14 games last season.

Why it matters

The Chiefs' offensive line struggled mightily in 2025, leading to Mahomes taking a career-high number of sacks. Improving the protection for their franchise quarterback is a top priority this offseason as the team looks to bounce back from missing the playoffs.

The details

According to the analysis, the Chiefs could lose right tackle Jawaan Taylor in free agency due to salary cap constraints. Even if he returns, the team needs to upgrade its offensive line. Mauigoa, who led all qualified right tackles in pass-blocking grade in 2025, would bring a physical presence in the run game and help keep Mahomes upright.

  • In the 2026 NFL Draft, the Chiefs are projected to select Mauigoa with their first-round pick.

The players

Patrick Mahomes

The star quarterback of the Kansas City Chiefs who was sacked 34 times in just 14 games last season.

Francis Mauigoa

A tackle from the University of Miami who is projected to be selected by the Chiefs in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft to help improve their offensive line.

Jawaan Taylor

The Chiefs' current right tackle who could emerge as a salary cap casualty this offseason.

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What they’re saying

“The Chiefs are facing a difficult salary cap situation this offseason, and right tackle Jawaan Taylor could emerge as a cap casualty with no guaranteed salary remaining on his contract. With or without Taylor, Kansas City needs to upgrade its offensive line. Miami's Francis Mauigoa would add a physical presence in the run game and is coming off a 2025 season in which he led all qualified right tackles in pass-blocking grade.”

— Dalton Wasserman, PFF Analyst

What’s next

The Chiefs will have to decide whether to keep Jawaan Taylor or let him go in free agency, and then determine if Mauigoa is the right pick to address their offensive line needs in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft.

The takeaway

Improving the offensive line to better protect Patrick Mahomes is a top priority for the Chiefs this offseason. Drafting a talented tackle like Francis Mauigoa could be the key to shoring up the unit and helping the team bounce back from a disappointing 2025 campaign.