Feb. 28, 2026, 3:13 p.m. ET
Heading into the new league year, the Miami Dolphins have free offensive linemen set to become unrestricted free agents, including starting right guard Cole Strange and backup guards Daniel Brunskill and Liam Eichenberg.
With that, Miami should be looking for both a starting guard and at least one backup this offseason. That’s why the Dolphins have met with Miami Hurricanes offensive lineman Francis Mauigoa at the 2026 NFL combine.
Mauigoa, 20, was a five-star prospect out of IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, before committing to the University of Miami for the 2023 season. Over the last three years, he’s appeared in and started 42 games at right tackle, earning All-ACC honors twice (second team in 2024 and first team in 2025) and All-American honors once (2025).
The Dolphins have right tackle Austin Jackson under contract for one more year before his deal voids. If Miami wants to keep Jackson around for the year, Mauigoa would slide in at right guard easily, but if they move Jackson for more draft capital, Mauigoa could stick at his natural position.
Miami would have to get lucky to land Mauigoa in the draft, as he’s currently projected to be a top-five pick, meaning he’d have to fall or the Dolphins would have to come up to take him.
Expert NFL picks: Exclusive betting insights only at USA TODAY.
More Dolphins: Recently released Dolphins star predicted to sign with AFC South team