In the natural sequence of events in the sports world, CBS Sports has already released their way-too-early 2026 NFL draft predictions. In an analysis written by Josh Edwards of CBS, Miami fans will be pleased with the top 10. Edwards' has two Miami Hurricanes slotted in the top seven selections of the 2026 NFL Draft. EDGE Rueben Bain Jr. and OT Francis Mauigoa were the players included.
EDGE Rueben Bain Jr.
""The Titans did draft UCLA pass rusher Oluwafemi Oladejo on Day 2, but they could target help at the position again next year. Bain has the size to fulfill a few different positions for Tennessee, but his production needs to be more of what was seen in 2023 rather than 2024.""Josh Edwards
Edwards has Bain going to the Tennessee Titans with the No. 5 overall pick. He mentions the size and potential that Miami fans would like to see Bain utilize, and live up to. The 2024 season for Bain was defined by an injury on the first drive of the first game that prevented him from feeling like himself for the rest of the year.
In his freshman year, Bain registered 7.5 sacks and 45 pressures. In his sophomore year he only had 3.5 sacks and 28 pressures. If he can return to the form that allowed him to earn honors such as ACC Defensive Rookie of the Year and Third-team All-ACC, then the sky is the limit for Bain.
OT Francis Mauigoa
"Carolina picked up Ikem Ekwonu's option, but there is a world where they move on from him after the season or potentially even convert him to offensive guard. Mauigoa would give them a new left tackle on a rookie contract. Mauigoa's older brother, Francisco, was drafted in the fifth round by the Jets."Josh Edwards
Edwards has Mauigoa going to the Carolina Panthers with the No. 7 overall pick. Mauigoa has been a top prospect since his high school days. He was ranked as the top tackle prospect in the class of 2023 and was ranked No. 5 overall by ESPN and No. 8 overall by 247sports.
In 2023 he earned All-ACC Honorable Mention and multiple outlets named him to the Freshman All-America Team. In 2024, he was honored with a Second-team All-ACC selection. Mauigoa's brother, Francisco, was selected in the 2025 NFL Draft in the fifth round by the New York Jets.