Sarah Quintanilla

Former Indiana University Hoosier and Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza  has decided to not attend the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh. Mendoza is ranked as the No. 1 quarterback prospect in the NFL Draft and projected to be selected by the Las Vegas Raiders with the No. 1 pick.

The Boston-born Cuban initially received an offer from Yale University before receiving a last-minute offer from the University of California at Berkeley. At Cal, Mendoza was the lowest-ranked recruit in former head coach Justin Wilcox’s 2022 class. Despite the setback, Mendoza made a name for himself and worked his way up to becoming a two-year starter for the Golden Bears. 

Still, Mendoza had hopes of playing in the NFL. In December 2024, Mendoza committed to transfer to Indiana, while simultaneously completing his MBA from the Haas School of Business in just three years. In a Yahoo Sports article, Mendoza stated he “viewed Indiana as the best place for growth.” At Indiana, Mendoza led the team to its first-ever perfect 16-0 record and its first national championship since 1894.

Mendoza officially announced he was declaring for the 2026 NFL Draft in January 2026. 

“Coming to Indiana was a leap of faith, a leap that led me to go 16-0 with my boys and a national championship,” Mendoza said in a video announcing his decision. “And has now led me here, the moment where I get to dream bigger.”

Mendoza plans to take a non-traditional route by not attending the NFL draft. Instead, Mendoza plans to celebrate in Miami, Florida, with his family. If the Raiders select Mendoza, he will be the first No. 1 overall pick since Trevor Lawrence — who did not attend due to COVID-19 restrictions — to be absent at the NFL draft. Trevor Lawerence had an excuse to miss this opportunity; Mendoza does not.

While Mendoza’s decision not to attend the draft gives him more control over his environment and eliminates the risk of uncomfortable moments, he is missing a once-in-a-lifetime moment that other players dream about. The NFL Draft is a unique experience that some dream of and Mendoza is throwing that moment away. Some supporters could interpret skipping this iconic event as a lack of appreciation.

During Mendoza’s pro day, he impressed a group of Raiders representatives with his performance. The Raiders were so astonished with Mendoza’s groundbreaking performance that during the NFL combine in Indianapolis, Raiders’ representatives had an extended meeting with him.

In a New York Times article, Jeff Howe states, “It was the most purposeful and impressive pro day by any of the top QBs in the last two draft classes.” 

Mendoza’s performance further solidified his standing as a well-rounded prospect for the draft. Mendoza’s 65 passes in a mere 19 minutes during his pro day were wasted as his decision not to attend the draft has sparked discourse among supporters and critics. His absence does not diminish the anticipation he brings to the field. 

As draft day approaches, expectations remain high that Mendoza will be the first player selected, regardless of where he chooses the thrilling moment to unfold.

The 2026 NFL Draft will be held in Pittsburgh from April 23-25.