GLENDALE – Miami’s offensive lineman Francis Mauigoa is rated as one of the best offensive lineman in the draft. Many teams in search of a tackle, like the Arizona Cardinals, Tennessee Titans, New York Giants and more have him rated as the best. Despite the league-wise praise, ESPN draft expert Mel Kiper Jr. appeared on Arizona Sports radio show to discuss why the Cardinals shouldn’t reach for Mauigoa with the third overall pick, calling it too “rich” of a selection.
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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
Kiper on why Arizona shouldn’t take Mauigoa at 3:
In the past two seasons at Miami, Maugioa has given up three sacks and is one of the best pass blocking tackles in this year’s class. His presence and leadership with the Hurricanes’ offensive line fueled them towards a National Championship appearance. Regardless, general manager Monti Ossenfort isn’t in the market for an offensive lineman anymore following a busy free agency period.
Arizona Cardinals general manager Monti Ossenfort during an NFL pre-draft press conference at the Cardinals Dignity Health Training Center in Tempe on April 18, 2024.
Ossenfort signed offensive linemen like Isaac Seumalo, Matt Pryor, Elijah Wilkinson and Olisaemeka Udoh. There would’ve still been a chance Arizona takes Mauigoa if it didn’t sign zero edge rushers in free agency. The top two priorities for the franchise was offensive line and pass rush this offseason. Ossenfort has signed four lineman but has deliberately not signed an edge.
The reasoning is because Texas Tech edge David Bailey will be there at third overall for Ossenfort to take and add alongside Josh Sweat. Doesn’t matter if its Bailey or Miami’s Rueben Bain Jr., the fourth-year Cardinals GM will likely go defense with third overall pick with the amount of lineman signed this offseason thus far.
ESPN’s Peter Schrager says Cardinals could draft ‘wild card’ at No. 3 pick
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
