The best way the New York Giants can make sure that their first-round investment in QB Jaxson Dart pays off is to make sure he's protected by a competent offensive line.
Andrew Thomas will get the job done at left tackle, and the interior offensive line positions at least have some upside with John Michael Schmitz Jr. at center and Jon Runyan at guard. Even Evan Neal, the former tackle-turned-guard, is an intriguing watch in 2025.
READ: Jaxson Dart already showing signs he could challenge Giants’ QB plan
But the biggest issue facing this team is at right tackle, where veteran Jermaine Eluemunor will resume his starting role and attempt to provide some stability on the edge. Still, he isn't a long-term answer, which is why ESPN's Matt Miller has the Giants spending a first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft on a new offensive tackle in his latest 2026 mock draft.
"Mauigoa enters his third college season as a player on the rise. After allowing five sacks during his true freshman season in 2023, the 6-foot-6, 315-pound right tackle didn't allow a sack last season and drew only three penalties," Miller wrote. "Mauigoa is best as a run blocker in a zone scheme, with quick feet and the agility to get to the second level. He'd serve as a replacement for disappointing 2022 first-rounder Evan Neal and join a youthful offense which also features 2025 first-round quarterback Jaxson Dart, star second-year receiver Malik Nabers and emerging running back Tyrone Tracy Jr."
The upside with this mock draft selection is the New York Giants form a tandem of bookend offensive tackles that have the upside to rival the best in the NFL. The downside is they select No. 2 overall, which means the 2025 season was an absolute abomination. You can bet if this scenario plays out, a new general manager and head coach will be making the call in Round 1.
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