New York Giants pick No. 2, take offensive tackle in Matt Miller’s 2026 NFL mock draft

Let’s hope ESPN is wrong about how early the Giants will pick in next year’s draft

Is it ever really too early to talk about the next NFL Draft? Probably not, especially we’re in the summer doldrums without anything going on.

So, let’s talk about Matt Miller’s pre-July 4 2026 NFL Draft for ESPN and its implications for the New York Giants.

Before we even talk about who Miller gave the Giants, I think it is more interesting to note that he has the Giants picking No. 2 overall. That is because that is where ESPN’s Football Power Index projects the Giants to end up.

After what Miller said was “thousands of simulations” of the upcoming season, the FPI has the Giants winning just 3.1 games, better only than the Cleveland Browns.

So much for all the optimism currently surrounding the Giants.

Now, here is what Miller gave the Giants with the No. 2 overall pick:

Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami*

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. 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.

Valentine’s View: I know nothing about Mauigoa at this juncture. I do know that right now drafting an offensive tackle makes sense. Jermaine Eluemunor is in the final year of his contract, and Andrew Thomas has been injured in each of the past two seasons.

Let’s hope, though, that the Football Power Index is wrong about how bad the upcoming season will be for New York.