What's Happening?
Fernando Mendoza, the quarterback for Indiana, has announced his decision to enter the 2026 NFL Draft, foregoing his senior season. Mendoza, 22, had an outstanding 2025 season, leading the Hoosiers to a perfect
16-0 record and a College Football Playoff national title. He threw for 3,535 yards, 41 touchdowns, and only six interceptions, completing 72.0 percent of his passes. His performance earned him the Heisman Trophy and positioned him as a top prospect for the upcoming draft. Mendoza's decision comes after transferring from Cal, where he spent two seasons before joining Indiana. He is projected to be the No. 1 overall pick by the Las Vegas Raiders, according to Bleacher Report's NFL Scouting Department.
Why It's Important?
Mendoza's entry into the NFL Draft is significant as it highlights his rapid development and potential impact on professional football. His decision to leave college early underscores the allure of the NFL for top college athletes, especially those who have achieved significant success at the collegiate level. For Indiana, Mendoza's departure marks the end of a remarkable era, but it also sets a precedent for the program's ability to develop NFL-caliber talent. For the NFL, Mendoza's entry adds a highly skilled quarterback to a draft class that is not considered particularly strong at the position, potentially making him a highly sought-after player.
What's Next?
As Mendoza prepares for the NFL Draft, teams will likely evaluate his performance and potential fit within their organizations. The Las Vegas Raiders, projected to pick him first overall, will need to assess their quarterback needs and how Mendoza's skills align with their offensive strategy. Meanwhile, Indiana will focus on recruiting and developing new talent to fill the void left by Mendoza's departure. The upcoming draft will also see other teams strategizing to either secure Mendoza or adjust their plans based on his availability.
