Key Highlights
- Fernando Mendoza is believed to be in the running for the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL draft.
- Mendoza has led Indiana to a 9-0 start and a No. 2 ranking in the AP Top 25 this season.
- B/R’s NFL Scouting Department predicted Mendoza would be selected by the New Orleans Saints with the No. 1 pick.
- It is uncertain if Mendoza will declare for the draft or return to college football for his senior year.
Fernando Mendoza’s NFL Prospects
In a recent development, Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza has been making waves in the college football and NFL communities. The 20-year-old is expected to leave college after this season, potentially securing the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL draft.
Standing Tall: Mendoza’s College Performance
Mendoza has been a standout player for the Indiana Hoosiers since transferring from Cal. This year, he has led the team to an impressive 9-0 record and secured a No. 2 ranking in the AP Top 25. His performances have not gone unnoticed; B/R’s NFL Scouting Department recently predicted that Mendoza would be selected first overall by the New Orleans Saints.
Uncertain Future: Decision Time
Despite his promising future, it remains to be seen whether Mendoza will follow through with his plans. Todd McShay, a renowned draft expert, reported during his podcast that Mendoza “is believed to be leaving after this year, but it’s not a lock.” This uncertainty leaves teams in suspense as they wait for the quarterback to make his decision.
Other talented underclassmen like Texas’ Arch Manning and South Carolina’s LaNorris Sellers have also been mentioned as potential NFL prospects. However, Mendoza is considered “the most likely” among this group to leave college early, according to McShay.
NFL Draft Landscape
The NFL draft is a highly anticipated event that shapes the future of players and teams alike. As the 2026 season comes to an end, scouts and analysts are closely monitoring Mendoza’s performance. His decision will not only impact his career but also shape the landscape of quarterback prospects for the upcoming NFL draft.
Regardless of whether Mendoza chooses to return to college or head straight into the professional ranks, his journey is sure to be a topic of discussion in both college football and NFL circles. The coming months will provide clarity on this exciting player’s future.
