Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza Draws Mixed Reviews Ahead of 2026 NFL Draft

Heisman Trophy winner's arm strength and improvisation skills raise concerns despite gaudy stats

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Fernando Mendoza, the Indiana Hoosiers' star quarterback who led the team to an undefeated season and a national championship in 2025, is widely projected as a top pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. However, a scouting report raises questions about whether Mendoza's success was more a product of Indiana's quarterback-friendly offensive scheme than his own elite talent, with concerns about his arm strength and ability to make plays outside the pocket.

Why it matters

As one of the most hyped quarterback prospects in recent memory, Mendoza's evaluation will be closely watched by NFL teams in need of a franchise signal-caller. The debate over whether he is a true can't-miss prospect or a product of his college system could impact his draft stock and the long-term outlook for whichever team selects him.

The details

Mendoza, a former three-star recruit from Miami, Florida, transferred to Indiana in 2024 after two seasons at Cal. In his lone year as the Hoosiers' starter, he threw for 3,535 yards, 41 touchdowns and just 6 interceptions, leading the nation in touchdown passes and QBR. However, the scouting report suggests Mendoza thrived in Indiana's quarterback-friendly RPO offense, with concerns about his arm strength, deep ball accuracy, and ability to make plays outside of structure.

  • Mendoza won the Heisman Trophy in 2025.
  • Mendoza declared for the 2026 NFL Draft after Indiana's national championship season.

The players

Fernando Mendoza

A former three-star recruit from Miami, Florida who transferred to Indiana for his final college season and led the Hoosiers to an undefeated record and national championship in 2025, winning the Heisman Trophy in the process.

Indiana Hoosiers

The college football team that Mendoza played for in 2025, going undefeated and winning the national championship with Mendoza as their starting quarterback.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Mendoza is expected to be a top pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, with the Las Vegas Raiders reportedly interested in selecting him with the first overall pick.

The takeaway

While Mendoza's college production was undeniably impressive, the scouting report raises legitimate concerns about whether his success was more a function of Indiana's offensive system than his own elite talent as an NFL-caliber quarterback. His draft stock and long-term outlook will hinge on how teams evaluate his arm strength, improvisation skills, and ability to translate his college dominance to the pro game.