PITTSBURGH — Three Miami Hurricanes were selected in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft, highlighted by a dominant defensive front and a cornerstone offensive tackle.
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Offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa was taken No. 10 overall by the New York Giants, defensive lineman Rueben Bain Jr. went No. 15 to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Akheem Mesidor was selected No. 22 by the Los Angeles Chargers.
Bain and Mesidor anchored Miami’s defensive line during its national championship run, combining for 117 tackles, 22 sacks and five forced fumbles last season.
Mesidor led the duo with 63 tackles and 12.5 sacks, while Bain added 54 tackles and 9.5 sacks.
The pair also made their presence felt on the biggest stage, generating 33 pressures and seven sacks across three College Football Playoff games.
Miami defensive line coach and Pro Football Hall of Fame edge rusher Jason Taylor said earlier this month that both players are built for the next level.
“They got everything,” Taylor said.“They have the mental makeup. They love football. Those two guys love ball.”
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Taylor dismissed concerns about Bain’s measurables, including his 30⅞-inch arm length, and Mesidor’s age, pointing instead to their production and consistency.
“I don’t give a damn how long somebody’s arms are,” Taylor said. “Put on the tape.”
On offense, Mauigoa entered the draft with some injury concerns. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported he has a herniated disk in his back, a factor teams evaluated leading up to the draft.
Despite that, analysts view him as a plug-and-play lineman.
Listed at 6-foot-6 and 325 pounds, Mauigoa brings extensive experience at right tackle with a powerful frame, strong hands and the ability to anchor in pass protection. His footwork also gives him the versatility to potentially move inside to guard.
With three first-round selections, Miami once again is well represented on draft night.
The Hurricanes have a long history of producing NFL talent.
At least one Miami player has been selected in 51 consecutive NFL drafts, a school record.
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