Fernando Mendoza led the Indiana Hoosiers to a perfect 16-0 record, defeating Carson Beck and the Miami Hurricanes for the national championship. They also secured their first Big Ten title since 1967.
The Heisman Trophy winner threw for 3,535 yards, 41 touchdowns and six interceptions with a 182.9 passer rating while completing 72% of his passes. Mendoza also rushed for 276 yards and seven touchdowns on 90 carries.
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He now prepares for the 2026 NFL Draft as the top prospect on the board. Until then, the quarterback continues to cash in on his popularity.
Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15).Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
(Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images)
Throughout the season, the redshirt junior secured multiple exciting Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) opportunities. That hasn’t changed since winning the national championship.
In a joint Instagram post, Mendoza announced a new NIL partnership with Waymo. It’s a company producing self-driving cars and autonomous vehicles.
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“Big game energy isn’t new to @fernandomendoza,” the Instagram post read. “The national champion takes in the city in a Waymo.”
Waymo joins a growing list of companies to partner with Mendoza, including Dr Pepper, Epic Games, Adidas and Keurig. Going forward, though, the quarterback won’t need to rely on NIL to make money.
In Mel Kiper’s latest mock draft for ESPN, Mendoza is predicted to be selected with the No. 1 pick by the Las Vegas Raiders. Spotrac projects the top pick will sign a four-year, $54.9 million rookie contract.
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As he prepares for the transition from college to the NFL, adding another partnership only highlights his popularity. It will only grow if Mendoza is the first player taken off the board when the draft begins on April 23 in Pittsburgh.
Related: Auburn Receives Message From 4-Star Quarterback
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Feb 8, 2026, where it first appeared in the College Football section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.