Potential.
It’s a common denominator between the New York Jets’ offseason additions under Darren Mougey.
Whether it was signing Justin Fields to a $40 million deal or drafting Francisco Mauigoa in the fifth round, New York’s first-year general manager has prioritized adding players with upside. That label applies to the rookie linebacker from Miami, who registered a fantastic RAS (Relative Athletic Score) of 9.17.
Chosen 162nd overall, the 22-year-old joins a Jets defense where he will have the luxury of learning behind two accomplished veterans in Jamien Sherwood and Quincy Williams. The Jets will not expect too much from Mauigoa off the bat, which should allow the toolsy fifth-rounder to soak up knowledge from the vets as he hones his game.
Mauigoa, a native of American Samoa, spent his first two college seasons at Washington State. He transferred to Miami in 2023 and emerged as a productive starter over the last two seasons. Mauigoa was particularly adept against the run, as he led the ACC with 68 run stops from 2023-24, according to Pro Football Focus.
However, Mauigoa is a raw prospect in multiple areas, explaining why he fell to the fifth round. His tackling needs work after he tied for the ACC lead with 18 missed tackles in 2024. Mauigoa was also a liability in coverage, yielding three touchdowns and a 107.2 passer rating in his senior year.
One role where Mauigoa could have some underrated potential is as a versatile outside linebacker who lines up on the edge in 3-4 looks. As we will see in the film review, he often played this role in Miami’s defense, and he held his own at times. There are instances of him setting the edge well against pulling linemen, while he also showed pass-rush ability. Mauigoa finished his career with 13 sacks on just 205 pass-rush snaps.
What is Mauigoa’s ceiling in the NFL? Can Aaron Glenn find a role for Mauigoa in his rookie year?
Only the film can answer these questions.
Below is Blewett’s Blitz’s full Francisco Mauigoa scouting report (strengths and weaknesses) and film review, which features 24 plays.
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