Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza Enters NFL Draft as Quarterback Prospect

Emerson Raymont

Published: January 24, 2026 7:33 AM ET

Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza Enters NFL Draft as Quarterback Prospect

Fernando Mendoza, Indiana’s celebrated quarterback and recent Heisman Trophy winner, has officially declared for the 2026 NFL Draft. His decision comes after a remarkable season where he led the Hoosiers to a perfect 16-0 record and their first national championship.

Remarkable Season Highlights

Mendoza’s stellar season was marked by impressive statistics and pivotal game moments. He completed 72% of his passes, accumulating 3,535 yards along with 41 touchdowns and just six interceptions. Additionally, he rushed for seven touchdowns.

Key Performances

Against Iowa, Mendoza threw a 49-yard touchdown pass to Elijah Sarratt with 88 seconds remaining, resulting in a 20-15 victory.
Against Oregon, after a tough Pick-6, he responded by leading a scoring drive that secured a 30-20 win.
In a nail-biting match against Penn State, he delivered a 7-yard touchdown pass to Omar Cooper Jr., clinching the game 27-24.
Mendoza also achieved a crucial 17-yard touchdown pass against Ohio State, ending a 30-game losing streak against them and securing Indiana’s first outright Big Ten title since 1945.

College Football Playoffs

During the College Football Playoff, Mendoza shone brightly. He led Indiana to a decisive 38-3 victory over No. 9 Alabama, followed by a 56-22 win against No. 5 Oregon. The championship game saw him guide the Hoosiers to a 27-21 win over No. 10 Miami.

Leadership and Legacy

Mendoza’s leadership on and off the field emerged as a hallmark of his season. His experience and dedication helped foster a close-knit team atmosphere that contributed greatly to their success. Coach Curt Cignetti praised Mendoza’s ability to inspire and drive his teammates forward.

Future Prospects

As he prepares for the NFL, Mendoza is positioned as a top quarterback prospect, especially following the announcement that Oregon’s Dante Moore will return to school. The Las Vegas Raiders hold the No. 1 overall pick and are in dire need of a franchise quarterback after a disappointing 3-14 season.

Before heading to the NFL, Mendoza will take part in celebrations in Bloomington. His journey to this point is remarkable, starting from being a lightly recruited player to becoming a record-breaking star and the third Latino player to win the Heisman. His commitment to football proves inspirational for many, and his future appears bright as he transitions to professional play.