Fernando Mendoza Enters 2026 NFL Draft – Inside the Hall
Fernando Mendoza, the acclaimed Heisman Trophy winner and national champion, officially declared for the 2026 NFL Draft on Friday morning. This announcement came through his Instagram account, where he expressed his gratitude and excitement. “Let’s get to work,” he wrote, sharing his enthusiasm for the next phase of his career.
Key Achievements and Stats
Mendoza enjoyed a stellar season with the Indiana Hoosiers, leading them to an impressive 16-0 record and capturing the program’s first national championship. His performance in 2023 was exceptional:
- Passing yards: 3,535
- Touchdowns: 41
- Quarterback rating: 90.3 (led the nation)
Upcoming Appearance and Popularity
Currently, Mendoza is in New York, promoting his recent achievements. He made a notable appearance on “The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon” on Thursday. Additionally, he is scheduled for interviews on several major daytime shows, including:
- Good Morning America
- The Today Show
- CBS Mornings
Projected Draft Position
Mendoza is anticipated to be the top pick in the upcoming draft in April, with the Las Vegas Raiders holding the No. 1 selection. Following the departure of Mendoza, Indiana has secured TCU transfer Josh Hoover to take over the quarterback position.
As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, fans and analysts alike are eager to see where Mendoza’s talent will take him. His record-breaking season has solidified his status as one of the most promising prospects in recent times.
