Miami Hurricanes linebacker Francisco Mauigoa drafted by New York Jets in fifth round
Francisco “Kiko” Mauigoa spent two seasons starting in the middle of the Miami Hurricanes’ defense, establishing himself as a capable linebacker and a veteran presence.
Now, he’s off to the NFL.
The New York Jets selected Mauigoa in the fifth round with the 162nd overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft on Saturday.
In two seasons with the Hurricanes, Mauigoa tallied 178 tackles, including 29 for loss and 9-and-a-half sacks. He also forced three fumbles and broke up eight passes.
Prior to his time with the Hurricanes, he played two seasons at Washington State.
NFL.com draft analyst described Mauigoa as a “productive three-year starter with the frame and physicality of a throwback banger.”
“Mauigoa is limited athletically but works around it using his football intelligence and feel for blocking schemes,” Zierlein’s breakdown continued. “He’s proactive downhill but too slow to patrol sideline to sideline and lacks the agility to tackle shifty runners in space. He’s too limited for third-down duties as a pro, so he’ll have to prove he’s a capable backup as a two-down run thumper and quality special-teams player.”
This story was originally published April 26, 2025 at 3:10 PM.
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