The New York Jets drafted linebacker Kiko Mauigoa with a fifth-round pick during the 2025 NFL draft. Mauigoa made a bit of an impact as a rookie, notching 45 tackles in 12 regular-season appearances.
It would be beneficial to head coach Aaron Glenn’s defense if he took a step forward as a sophomore in 2026.
The rebuilding Jets gave Mauigoa more playing time as their 2025 season went in the wrong direction. The former Miami Hurricanes linebacker played a total of 329 defensive snaps. That accounted for roughly 30% of the Jets’ 2025 defensive plays. Mauigoa was also a factor on special teams, earning an additional 204 reps in that phase.
The Jets have made some changes at linebacker this offseason. They reunited with veteran Demario Davis, asking him to come in and lead the defense. Jamien Sherwood is back as a primary starter at the position, and Quincy Williams left in free agency.
When the Jets are in base defense with three off-ball linebackers, Mauigoa projects as the player opposite Davis and Sherwood. The Jets won’t be in a personnel package with three linebackers very often, so Mauigoa must take advantage of his opportunities.
The defense would benefit from him being productive.
This article originally appeared on Jets Wire: Jets need more from LB Kiko Mauigoa in 2026
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