Share and Follow
In a bold statement of dedication, the Giants’ latest recruit, Francis Mauigoa, reached out to Jaxson Dart following his selection as the No. 10 overall pick by the team. The offensive tackle from Miami expressed his commitment to Dart in an interview with ESPN, saying, “I’m ready to die for you, man,” emphasizing his determination to protect his new teammate.
Mauigoa’s words come as a relief to Dart, who endured a challenging rookie season, being sacked 35 times and facing concussion-related issues due to his aggressive playing style. The Giants, recognizing the importance of safeguarding their quarterback, have made a strategic move to reinforce their offensive line under the new leadership of head coach John Harbaugh.
“I know a lot of things has happened, but I’m ready to die for you bro,” he said.
Dart was sacked 35 times during his rookie season and, due to his aggressive style, dealt with concussion issues.
Now, with one of their first picks in the John Harbaugh era, the Giants have opted to address the offensive line.
The pick that the Giants used to select Mauigoa was the one they acquired in the trade with the Bengals that sent Dexter Lawrence to Cincinnati.
Mauigoa is well known for his Samoan roots and is known to his friends and family as “Sisi.”
Follow The Post’s live updates from the 2026 NFL Draft with news, analysis and reaction.
His heritage is also something he takes great pride in, addressing it while on ESPN after he was taken.
“Born and raised an American Samoan, never thought I’d be here,” he said when asked what his message was to his community. “If I can do it, you can do it. Simple as that.”
Mauigoa also wore an outfit that paid homage to his heritage, which he proudly sported on the NFL draft red carpet and had on when he went on stage after his name was called by NFL commissioner Roger Goodell.
Going into the draft, it was unclear what the Giants would do, and general manager Joe Schoen admitted that the team took calls about trading the No. 5 overall pick.