Heisman Winner Mendoza Draws Loud Crowd at NFL Combine

Indiana QB opts out of drills but still gets big reaction from fans at Lucas Oil Stadium

Mar. 3, 2026 at 4:39am

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Fernando Mendoza, the Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback from Indiana, drew a loud cheer from the crowd at the 2026 NFL Combine just by showing up at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mendoza, the presumptive No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming draft, opted out of participating in drills but still joined the other quarterbacks on the field, prompting an enthusiastic reaction from the fans when he appeared on the in-stadium screen.

Why it matters

Mendoza's popularity and star power were on full display, as the Indiana fans in attendance made it clear they will continue to support him even after he leaves for the NFL. His ability to draw such a reaction without even participating in drills underscores his status as one of the most highly anticipated prospects in this year's draft.

The details

Mendoza began his college career at California before transferring to Indiana prior to the 2025 season. In his lone year with the Hoosiers, he led the team to the CFP National Championship, the first in program history. Mendoza finished the 2025 season with a 72% completion rate, 3,535 passing yards, 41 touchdowns, and just 6 interceptions.

  • Mendoza opted out of participating in drills at the NFL Combine on February 28, 2026.
  • The crowd at Lucas Oil Stadium cheered loudly when Mendoza appeared on the in-stadium screen on February 28, 2026.

The players

Fernando Mendoza

The Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback from Indiana who is the presumptive No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Indiana Hoosiers

The college football team that Mendoza led to the CFP National Championship in 2025, the first in program history.

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What’s next

Mendoza is expected to be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft in April.

The takeaway

Mendoza's star power and popularity were on full display at the NFL Combine, as the Indiana fans in attendance made it clear they will remain loyal supporters even as he transitions to the professional ranks. His ability to draw such an enthusiastic reaction without even participating in drills underscores his status as one of the most highly anticipated prospects in this year's draft.