Dolphins and Chiefs could jockey for position based on latest 2026 NFL draft rumor

The Kansas City Chiefs and Miami Dolphins have been linked together because of a shared interest in one of the 2026 NFL draft's best offensive tackle prospects.

According to Tony Pauline of Essentially Sports, Kansas City and Miami are eyeing Miami right tackle Francis Mauigoa.

In his report, Pauline notes that the expectation is Mauigoa won't get past both the Chiefs at No. 9 or the Dolphins at No. 11.

"I’m told the sweet spot is the Chiefs with the ninth pick or the Miami Dolphins with pick No. 11, as both teams have spent an 'inordinate amount of time' with the right tackle. Few believe Mauigoa gets past the Miami Dolphins, where he would be a Week 1 starter," Pauline reported.

The Chiefs' interest in Mauigoa obviously presents a problem for the Dolphins if they want him, as Kansas City picks two spots before Miami.

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That would mean the Dolphins might have to trade up if they want the Miami prospect, although it's tough to envision a rebuilding team like the Dolphins surrendering the draft capital needed to make that move.

If general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan wants to get aggressive to get his guy, Miami could target a trade up with the Washington Commanders (No. 7) and the New Orleans Saints (No. 8), the two teams picking ahead of Kansas City.

Trading up any further than that would be excessive, as Mauigoa doesn't figure to be a top-six pick in this draft.

Why Chiefs, Dolphins need Mauigoa

The Chiefs cut Jawaan Taylor loose this offseason and have a need at right tackle. The need isn't exactly dire, though, with Jaylon Moore still under contract.

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But a rumor suggests the Chiefs are interested in a trade for San Francisco 49ers superstar left tackle Trent Williams if he becomes available amid struggles to rework his contract, so clearly there's a desire for an upgrade upfront.

Miami figures to be in good hands with Patrick Paul on one side, but the other side is currently slated to be manned by Austin Jackson, who is on a one-year contract.

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