Draft season already brings pressure, but when injury strikes, it can flip a team’s entire strategy overnight. The Cleveland Browns are facing this issue over an offensive tackle prospect. 

On Thursday, Ian Rapaport, an NFL insider, reported that Francis Mauigoa of the Miami Hurricanes has had some back issues. 

“#Miami OT Francis Mauigoa, potentially the top tackle in the Draft, has decided to be at Combine Rechecks on Friday for additional imaging on a minor back issue that caused him some discomfort late in the season, sources say.”

The news is particularly concerning for Browns, who desperately need a long-term solution at LT after years of offensive line struggles.

Mauigoa is widely regarded as the top offensive tackle prospect in the class and has been frequently linked to the Browns with the No. 6 overall pick. Many analysts expect the team to select him early in the first round to anchor their offensive line.

Rapaport also talked about some teams' insistence on more check-ups, saying:

“He did perform fully at his Pro Day and currently is symptom-free. But some teams have asked for additional testing on a disc issue, and with nothing to hide, Mauigoa heads to Indy.”

There is good news as well. As per another Thursday report, Mauigoa’s check-up is complete, and there are no new concerns. 

“Miami OT Francis Mauigoa’s recheck is complete, with no new issues or concerns, source says” Mike Garafolo of the NFL Network reported on X. He added that, “After the request for a recheck was made in early March, Mauigoa met/visited with teams in the top third of the first round, an sign of his confidence any concerns would be satisfied.”

Mauigoa seems to be on the right track with his health. However, the Browns have more than just an OT to think about for the next season. 

Who Are the New Additions to the Browns Offense?

Before picking new players, the Browns strengthened their offense with a proven veteran. Tytus Howrad joined earlier in March after the team acquired him in a trade from the Houston Texans. And he is just one of the four new changes.

Elgton Jenkins, playing as a centre, has joined the Browns from the Green Bay Packers. The 30-year-old is quite versatile, having played as the left tackle, right tackle, and guard. The Browns have also signed Zion Johnson from the Los Angeles Chargers and re-signed Teven Jenkins.

The Browns ended the 2025 season with a 5-12 record and the 2024 season with a 3-14 record. Offense remains their weak link, and they need to use the draft to work on this issue.

They have nine picks in the upcoming draft. Whether they will use one for Mauigoa remains to be seen. 

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Written by

Akanksha Biradar

Edited by

Zaid Quraishi