(Gray News) – Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza announced Friday morning that he is declaring his intent for the 2026 NFL draft.
Mendoza made a post on Instagram saying, “Let’s get to work. I’m humbled to announce that I am officially declaring for the 2026 NFL Draft!”
The Indiana quarterback led the Hoosiers to an undefeated season, complete with a national-title game win over Miami.
Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) holds the trophy after Indiana defeated Miami in a College Football Playoff national championship game, Monday, Jan. 19, 2026, in Miami Gardens, Fla.(Lynne Sladky | AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)
Listed at 6-foot-5 and 225 pounds by Indiana, the QB threw for 3,535 yards, 41 TDs and six interceptions on 72% completions and ran for 276 yards and seven more scores in 16 games, according to NFL.com.
With the Las Vegas Raiders needing a strong quarterback contender with the No. 1 draft pick, Mendoza has a good chance of being selected first in the draft.
Oregon quarterback Dante Moore was also considered a potential No. 1 pick, but he opted to return to the Ducks for one more college season, according to ESPN.
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