NY Giants’ draft pick Francis Mauigoa promises Jaxson Dart to protect him at all costs

The New York Giants, with the number 10 pick of the 2026 NFL Draft, selected offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa, which generated high expectations, especially after a message that made clear his commitment to his position and protection of Jaxson Dart.

After being selected, he was asked about what he would do for Jackson Dart and said that he was ready to give everything for him. “I’m ready to die for you, man.” He will be part of the offensive line, and that hunger to give everything was evident.

A 3-year starter, Mauigoa played every game and allowed the lowest pressure rate among all FBS tackles in 2025. According to Ari Meirov, he is likely to be an RG with the Giants.

Doubts about the Giants picks

The Giants’ moves during the draft have been questioned, and there is something that Nabers is saying on behalf of the fans, first disagreeing with the drafting of Arvell Reese after missing out on Jeremiyah Love.

And then for passing on Caleb Downs and drafting Francis Mauigoa, basically not being satisfied with any of the decisions the front office has made, according to the team’s needs.

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And he directly criticized the offensive lineman coming from Miami, “I would rather get Downs than play against Downs, that’s all I’m saying,” Nabers said during his live reaction on Bleacher Report. “I understand Jaxson [Dart] did mention he wanted offensive linemen in this draft.”

Nabers simply does not see where Mauigoa would fit into the lineup upon arrival. “Is [Mauigoa] going to play inside? He has to play guard, but a lot of his film in Miami wasn’t at guard,” Nabers stated. “We did the same thing when we drafted Evan Neal. Caleb Downs was available. I’m not saying we don’t need a guard, but I think we could have gotten that probably later. We could have taken a playmaker now.”