The Arizona Cardinals are heading into the 2026 NFL Draft with the No. 3 overall pick and several options on the table. While Miami offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa has been widely discussed as a potential early selection, ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. believes Arizona may want to look in another direction.
Kiper recently shared his thoughts during an appearance on the Arizona Sports radio program Wolf and Luke. According to the analyst, selecting Mauigoa that early in the draft could be too high considering the Cardinals’ recent roster moves.
Mel Kiper Questions Value of Mauigoa at No. 3
During the radio appearance, Kiper suggested that drafting the Miami tackle with the third overall pick might be “too rich” for the Cardinals. His reasoning centers on the team’s active offseason approach to strengthening the offensive line through free agency.
Arizona added several experienced linemen in the offseason, which may reduce the urgency to spend such a valuable draft pick on another offensive tackle. Kiper’s comments indicate that the team could instead focus on other areas that still need improvement.
Cardinals Strengthened Offensive Line in Free Agency
The Cardinals made multiple moves during the offseason to add depth and experience to their offensive line. General manager Monti Ossenfort brought in several players to reinforce the unit.
| Player | Position | Offseason Move |
|---|---|---|
| Isaac Seumalo | Offensive Line | Signed in free agency |
| Matt Pryor | Offensive Line | Signed in free agency |
| Elijah Wilkinson | Offensive Line | Signed in free agency |
| Olisaemeka Udoh | Offensive Line | Signed in free agency |
Because of these additions, Ossenfort has indicated that the team is not actively searching for another offensive lineman at the moment. These moves could allow Arizona to address other needs with its high draft pick.
Also see: Logan Mankins Named Patriots Hall of Fame Finalist After Decorated Career in New England
Francis Mauigoa’s Strong College Resume
Even though the Cardinals may look elsewhere, Mauigoa remains one of the most highly regarded offensive tackles in the 2026 draft class.
The Miami standout built a strong reputation as a reliable pass blocker during his college career. Over the past two seasons, he allowed just three sacks while anchoring the Hurricanes’ offensive line.
His performance helped Miami reach the College Football Playoff and compete in the national championship game held on Jan. 8, 2026, in Glendale, Arizona. Scouts continue to view him as one of the best offensive tackle prospects available.
| Player | Key College Achievements |
|---|---|
| Francis Mauigoa (Miami) | Allowed only three sacks in two seasons; top pass-blocking prospect in the draft |
Defensive Options Emerging for Cardinals
Because Arizona addressed the offensive line during free agency, the team could prioritize defense with the third overall pick. The Cardinals have yet to add a major pass rusher this offseason, leaving that position as a possible focus in the draft.
Several defensive prospects have already been mentioned as potential targets if Arizona decides to strengthen its pass rush.
| Player | College | Position | Draft Possibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| David Bailey | Texas Tech | Edge Rusher | Possible defensive pick |
| Rueben Bain Jr. | Miami | Edge Rusher | Another option at No. 3 |
Adding a young edge rusher could help strengthen the Cardinals’ defensive front and complement the existing rotation, which may include players like Josh Sweat.
Also see: Three Draft Mistakes the Patriots Must Avoid in the 2026 NFL Draft
Cardinals’ Draft Strategy Still Open
With the draft approaching, the Cardinals still have flexibility regarding how they will use the No. 3 overall pick. Mauigoa remains one of the most talented offensive players available, but Arizona’s offseason moves suggest the team could look toward defense instead.
Kiper’s comments highlight the growing discussion around the Cardinals’ draft strategy. If Arizona decides its offensive line rebuild is already on track, the third pick could be used to add a difference-maker on defense rather than another lineman.
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