What's Happening?
Fernando Mendoza, projected as the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming NFL draft, has decided not to participate in the throwing drills at the NFL Scouting Combine this week. According to a source cited by Adam Schefter, Mendoza will instead perform his throwing exercises at Indiana University's pro day on April 1st. This decision is reportedly influenced by Mendoza's desire to work with Indiana's pass catchers, providing them an opportunity to showcase their skills alongside his own. The NFL Scouting Combine is a critical event where college football players perform physical and mental tests in front of NFL coaches, general managers, and scouts. Mendoza's choice to skip the combine's throwing session is notable, as it is a key opportunity for players to demonstrate
their abilities directly to NFL teams.
Why It's Important?
Mendoza's decision to skip the combine's throwing drills could have significant implications for his draft stock and the evaluation process by NFL teams. The combine is traditionally a platform where top prospects can solidify their status and impress scouts with their physical capabilities. By opting to throw at Indiana's pro day, Mendoza is taking a calculated risk, potentially affecting how teams perceive his readiness and adaptability. This move also highlights the growing trend of top prospects customizing their pre-draft processes to better suit their strengths and preferences. For Indiana's pass catchers, this presents a valuable opportunity to gain exposure and potentially improve their own draft prospects by performing alongside a high-profile quarterback.
What's Next?
The next step for Mendoza will be his performance at Indiana's pro day on April 1st. This event will be closely watched by NFL scouts and team representatives, as it will be Mendoza's primary opportunity to showcase his throwing skills before the draft. The decision to throw at a pro day rather than the combine may lead to increased scrutiny of his performance, as teams will be eager to assess his capabilities in a controlled environment. Additionally, the outcome of this showcase could influence the draft strategies of teams considering Mendoza as a top pick, potentially impacting the overall draft order and selections.
