New York Giants offensive lineman Francis Mauigoa will be tasked with blocking some of the top defensive talent in all of football throughout his rookie campaign.
The Giants selected Mauigoa with the 10th overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft last weekend. The talented lineman is expected to play a massive role in protecting star quarterback Jaxson Dart this season, and Mauigoa will be tested on a week-to-week basis during his first season in the NFL.
The former Miami big man took a moment to speak with Malik Nabers and Micah Parsons during a Bleacher Report segment following his selection in the first round, and Mauigoa was asked how he feels he would do against the Green Bay Packers’ superstar.
“I’m gonna prepare my (expletive) off. I will prepare my (expletive) off,” he said. “I know he’s known for his stuff, I got some stuff to prove. Respect for his game, but I’m gonna prepare my (expletive) off. I’m going to study everything, but yeah, he’s alright.”
Parsons shot back and told Mauigoa to hope he’s on injured reserve (IR) whenever the two teams play.
Mauigoa ended the interview with a clear message to Parsons.
“Micah, I’m not ducking any smoke. I’m ready for it,” he said.
The matchup between the two will have to wait until at least the 2027 campaign, as the Giants will not face the Packers in 2026. Parsons would have been an excellent test for Mauigoa early on in his career, but the rookie will undoubtedly face a plethora of tough opponents this season, nonetheless.
Mauigoa and Parsons will more than likely face each other at some point, but the rookie’s confidence is an excellent sign prior to training camp this summer.
This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: Giants’ Francis Mauigoa to Micah Parsons: ‘I’m not ducking any smoke’
Reporting by Jake Boico, Giants Wire / Giants Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
