Indiana QB Mendoza to Throw at Pro Day, Not Combine

Hoosiers star will showcase his skills to benefit teammates' draft prospects

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, the presumptive No. 1 pick in the upcoming NFL Draft, has decided not to throw at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis. Instead, Mendoza will wait to showcase his talents at Indiana's Pro Day on April 1, 2026, in order to help boost the draft stock of his Hoosiers teammates such as wide receivers Elijah Sarratt and Omar Cooper Jr., and running backs Roman Hemby and Kaelon Black.

Why it matters

Mendoza's decision to forego throwing at the Combine and instead focus on helping his teammates at the Indiana Pro Day is an unselfish move that demonstrates his leadership and commitment to the program. As a likely top draft pick, Mendoza has the leverage to prioritize his own interests, but he is choosing to use his platform to elevate his fellow Hoosiers.

The details

Mendoza, who is coming off a historic 2025 season, explained that throwing at the Combine would not be a priority for him since he would be working with unfamiliar receivers. Instead, he wants to throw alongside his regular targets at the Indiana Pro Day to give them the best opportunity to showcase their skills for NFL scouts.

  • Mendoza will attend the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis later this month.
  • The Indiana Pro Day is scheduled for April 1, 2026.

The players

Fernando Mendoza

The star quarterback for the Indiana Hoosiers, who is the presumptive No. 1 pick in the upcoming NFL Draft.

Elijah Sarratt

A wide receiver for the Indiana Hoosiers who Mendoza hopes to help boost his draft stock.

Omar Cooper Jr.

A wide receiver for the Indiana Hoosiers who Mendoza hopes to help boost his draft stock.

Roman Hemby

A running back for the Indiana Hoosiers who Mendoza hopes to help boost his draft stock.

Kaelon Black

A running back for the Indiana Hoosiers who Mendoza hopes to help boost his draft stock.

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What they’re saying

“At the combine, you're throwing to different receivers, it's a whole different thing. The combine, I don't think throwing's going to be a priority just because it's such a quick turnaround.”

— Fernando Mendoza (ESPN)

“I want to make sure I give my guys the best chance. I want to throw at pro day with my guys, with my running backs and be there with the boys.”

— Fernando Mendoza (The Pat McAfee Show)

What’s next

The Indiana Pro Day is scheduled for April 1, 2026, where Mendoza will showcase his skills alongside his Hoosiers teammates in an effort to boost their draft prospects.

The takeaway

Mendoza's decision to prioritize his teammates over his own draft preparation demonstrates his strong leadership and commitment to the Indiana program. By using his platform to elevate his fellow Hoosiers, Mendoza is setting an example of selflessness that is rare among top NFL prospects.