Mel Kiper mock draft: Arizona Cardinals beef up offensive line

As we enter the mock draft season we will likely just focus on one mock draft a week from outside of SB Nation or our own brain, and discuss things.

Yet, when the Godfather drops his first mock draft of the 2026 season, we have to talk about it.

Check out the first Mel Kiper 2026 NFL Mock Draft for the year.

3.Arizona Cardinals

Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami

Mauigoa would havejustmissed the chance to join his brother, linebackerKiko Mauigoa, with the Jets, but I still have Francis as a top-three pick thanks to his mauling play style, experience (41 career starts) and overall consistency as a blocker. SinceKelvin Beachumis a free agent, Mauigoa could slide in at right tackle and help springJames ConnerandTrey Bensonfor big runs next season. The quarterback situation is stillunsettled, but no matter who is under center, the protection has to be right.

This is an easy pick for anyone that doesn't follow the Arizona Cardinals, and one I think we will see throughout the process, until the Cardinals either address the right tackle position in free agency, or the draft rolls around.

Mauigoa is a monster 6-6 315lbs, a mauler in the run game and shows surprising agility for his length and strength.

Bookends of Paris Johnson Jr. and Mauigoa would be a god send for whoever the next quarterback for the Arizona Cardinals is.

Kiper's top 5:

1. Fernando Mendoza - Raiders
2. Arvell Reese - Jets
3. Mauigoa - Cardinals
4. David Bailey - Titans
5. Carnell Tate - Giants