Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza is generating buzz as a possible contender for the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, although his decision to enter the professional arena remains uncertain. NFL draft analyst Todd McShay indicated in a recent episode of The McShay Show that while Mendoza is “believed to be leaving after this year, it’s not a lock.”
Moreover, the NFL Scouting Department at Bleacher Report has placed Mendoza at the top of their latest mock draft, predicting he could be selected by the New Orleans Saints with the first overall pick. However, Mendoza faces a significant decision: whether to declare for the draft and forgo his senior season with the Indiana Hoosiers.
Mendoza is among a competitive field of underclassman quarterbacks, which includes Texas’ Arch Manning, South Carolina’s LaNorris Sellers, Oklahoma’s John Mateer, Alabama’s Ty Simpson, and Oregon’s Dante Moore. McShay noted that there is a strong possibility that Mendoza is the most likely among this group to make the leap to the NFL, though his future remains uncertain at this stage.
In his inaugural season with Indiana after transferring from Cal, Mendoza has showcased his talent by helping the Hoosiers achieve a perfect 9-0 record and a No. 2 ranking in the AP Top 25. He has amassed impressive stats, throwing for 2,124 yards, 25 touchdowns, and only four interceptions, while also contributing 220 rushing yards and four additional touchdowns on the ground. The potential for Mendoza’s transition to the NFL presents an exciting narrative for both the player and the league, as fans eagerly await his decision.