Fernando Mendoza makes 2026 NFL Draft decision with Raiders implications

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Fernando Mendoza needs to update his LinkedIn profile.

The Indiana quarterback declared for the 2026 NFL Draft on Friday morning, days after leading the Hoosiers to the national championship.

Fernando Mendoza enters the NFL draft after leading Indiana to the national championship.Fernando Mendoza enters the NFL draft after leading Indiana to the national championship. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Mendoza seems destined to be the No. 1 pick by the Raiders in the draft after throwing for 3,535 yards and 41 touchdowns in his one season in Bloomington, earning a Heisman Trophy in the process.

Raiders owner Mark Davis and minority owner Tom Brady were among those in attendance at Hard Rock Stadium on Monday when Mendoza led Indiana to a 27-21 win over Miami to claim the College Football Playoff title in a 16-0 season.

“Let’s get to work. I’m humbled to announce that I am officially declaring for the 2026 NFL Draft!” Mendoza wrote on an Instagram Reel with highlights from the Hoosiers season.

Mendoza, a 22-year-old junior, played two years at Cal before transferring to Indiana.

More to come on this developing story…

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