Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza Projected as Future NFL Star

Heisman Trophy winner and national champion expected to be top draft pick of struggling Las Vegas Raiders

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Draft experts are predicting that Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza, a Heisman Trophy winner and national champion, will be the top overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft and become a "star in the NFL." The Las Vegas Raiders, who had a three-win season, currently hold the first overall pick and are seen as the ideal landing spot for the 6'5", 225-pound pocket passer to develop behind veteran Geno Smith.

Why it matters

The Raiders have struggled to find a long-term answer at quarterback, and landing a potential franchise QB like Mendoza could be a transformative moment for the organization. Mendoza's combination of prototypical size, elite accuracy, and big-game experience have scouts raving about his NFL potential.

The details

Mendoza put up huge numbers in college, throwing for 3,535 yards last season. He is being compared to elite NFL pocket passers due to his precision and decision-making. The Raiders' current starter, Geno Smith, could serve as a veteran bridge to allow Mendoza to gradually adjust to the pro game before taking over the reins of the offense.

  • Mendoza won the Heisman Trophy and led his team to a national championship in 2025.
  • The 2026 NFL Combine starts on February 26 and will be broadcast on NFL Network.

The players

Fernando Mendoza

A 6'5", 225-pound quarterback from the University of Indiana who won the Heisman Trophy and led his team to a national championship in 2025.

Geno Smith

The veteran quarterback currently on the roster of the Las Vegas Raiders, who could serve as a bridge for the development of Mendoza as the team's future franchise QB.

Klint Kubiak

The head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders, who will be tasked with overseeing the transition of Mendoza from college star to NFL starter.

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What they’re saying

“Fernando Mendoza will be a star in the NFL.”

— Rob Rang, Fox Sports analyst (si.com)

What’s next

All eyes will be on Mendoza's performance at the upcoming NFL Combine, which starts on February 26 and will be broadcast on NFL Network. His draft stock and potential landing spot with the Raiders will become clearer after that showcase event.

The takeaway

The Raiders' struggles at quarterback have been well-documented, and landing a potential franchise QB like Mendoza could be a game-changer for the organization. If Mendoza can live up to the hype and develop behind a veteran like Geno Smith, he could be the long-term answer the Raiders have been searching for.