Miami Dolphins
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The Dolphins received good news ahead of the draft
Heading into the 2026 NFL Draft, the Miami Dolphins could realistically target every position with any of their early selections. The team has some solid pieces, and even All-Pro caliber players at certain spots, but much of the roster is filled with unproven players who are looking to make their mark in the NFL.
While Miami’s roster situation is likely not one many NFL teams envy, it does lend an advantage. Instead of drafting out of need, the team could prioritize taking the player who is highest on their draft board. Fortunately, the Dolphins hold the No. 11 pick, which is the highest pick the team has had sinceselecting recently traded wide receiver Jaylen Waddlewith the sixth overall selection in the 2021 NFL Draft.
Now, the team received some good news, which could help their first selection.
Miami Dolphins Get Good News
Francis Mauigoa, who is considered by many to be the top-ranked tackle prospect available in this upcoming draft class,underwent additional imaging on a minor back issue that affected him late last season, according to NFL insider Ian Rapoport.NFL insider Mike Garofolo has now reported the imaging resulted in no issues and no concerns for teams interested in the offensive lineman.
This is good news for the Dolphins, as not only is he a potential target for the team who has already met with the Miami front office, but it also strengthens the top of the first round.
For instance, had his imaging come back with medical red flags, Mauigoa, who is ranked as the No. 10 overall prospect by NFL Network draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah, would likely fall in the draft. That would lead to another potential Dolphins target being drafted before Miami’s selection.
Potential Fit With the Dolphins
The Dolphins hope to already have their tackle of the future on the roster, as second-year player Patrick Paul had an impressive 2025 season that earned rave reviews from new general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan.
However, that does not mean Mauigoa will not be a target, as he is a right tackle, a spot where the Dolphins currently have questions. The team decided to restructure veteran right tackle Austin Jackson’s contract, but Jackson has had issues staying on the field, as he has played only 14 games over the past two seasons. Jackson is also set to be a free agent after the 2026 season.
Additionally, Jon-Eric Sullivan mentioned that aside from Paul and center Aaron Brewer, the rest of the starting jobs on the offensive line are up for grabs.
ESPN’s Field Yates predicted the Dolphins would draft Mauigoa in his mock draft. Yates wrote:
“New general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan has referenced building his roster from the inside out, and Mauigoa would be a big boost to an offensive line that needs it. Miami ranked 24th in pass block win rate and 29th in run block win rate last season.
Mauigoa is a steady, well-built pass protector with raw power and the ability to get to the second level. Right tackle Austin Jackson recently agreed to a reduced and restructured contract that’s over after next season, so Mauigoa could slide in there.”