Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza Enters NFL Draft as Top Pick Contender
Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza has officially declared for the NFL Draft, leaving behind a remarkable college career. The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 23-25 in Pittsburgh, where Mendoza is regarded as a strong contender for the top pick.
Fernando Mendoza’s Accomplishments
Mendoza’s recent achievements have solidified his status as a top prospect. In the 2025 season, he won the prestigious Heisman Trophy and led the Indiana Hoosiers to their first national championship.
Record-Breaking Season
- Mendoza completed 72% of his passes.
- He amassed 3,535 passing yards.
- He threw 41 touchdown passes.
- He had only six interceptions.
- Mendoza added 276 rushing yards and seven touchdowns.
During the championship game against the No. 10 Miami Hurricanes, Mendoza demonstrated his skills by throwing for 186 yards and scoring an impressive 12-yard touchdown run. This performance helped Indiana secure a 27-21 victory at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida.
A Historic Team Achievement
The Indiana Hoosiers made history by finishing the season with a perfect 16-0 record. They became the first team in the modern era to achieve this feat, joining Yale, which accomplished it in 1894.
Future Prospects with the Raiders
As the NFL Draft approaches, Mendoza appears to be the frontrunner for selection by the Las Vegas Raiders. Raiders owner Mark Davis, along with notable figures like Tom Brady and general manager John Spytek, attended Indiana’s championship game to witness Mendoza’s talent firsthand.
Comparison with Other Greats
If Mendoza is chosen as the top pick, he would join an elite group of players. Only two players, Joe Burrow (2020) and Cam Newton (2011), have won both the Heisman Trophy and a national championship before being selected first overall in the NFL Draft.
With his exceptional college performance and the backing of the Raiders, Mendoza is poised for a promising career in the NFL.
