Heisman Winner, National Champion QB Shifts Focus to NFL

Fernando Mendoza looks to build on college success as he prepares for the NFL Draft

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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Heisman Trophy winner and national champion quarterback Fernando Mendoza is shifting his mindset toward the NFL after leading Indiana to an improbable national title. Mendoza, who transferred from Cal, is now preparing for the NFL Combine and upcoming draft, where he could be the top overall pick by the Las Vegas Raiders.

Why it matters

Mendoza's journey from a small scholarship offer out of high school to becoming a Heisman winner and national champion has captivated college football fans. As he transitions to the NFL, his story highlights the hard work and perseverance required to reach the highest levels of the sport.

The details

Mendoza threw for 3,535 yards and 41 touchdowns while leading Indiana to the national championship last season. He had previously put up strong numbers at Cal before transferring. Now the 22-year-old QB is focused on proving he can translate his college success to the professional ranks, knowing the NFL requires a "new skill set" as a "grown man's league."

  • Mendoza won the Heisman Trophy in December 2025.
  • Indiana won the national championship on January 12, 2026.
  • Mendoza received the Davey O'Brien Award as the nation's top college quarterback on February 17, 2026.
  • The 2026 NFL Combine is scheduled for the week of February 24, 2026.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft is set to begin on April 23, 2026.

The players

Fernando Mendoza

A Heisman Trophy winner and national champion quarterback who is now shifting his focus to the NFL after leading Indiana to an improbable title.

Josh Hoover

The quarterback who is expected to replace Mendoza at Indiana after starting the past three seasons at TCU.

Las Vegas Raiders

The NFL team that could potentially select Mendoza with the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

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What they’re saying

“It's been a whirlwind. I think now it's finally settled in, and the dust has started to settle. The national championship, and then boom, next thing you know you're on a new chapter.”

— Fernando Mendoza (foxsports.com)

“I'd be blessed and honored to play for the Raiders, or I'd be blessed to play for any team. Any NFL team that drafts me, I'd be ecstatic. I know at the draft, I'll probably shed a tear or two just because it's such a full-circle moment for me.”

— Fernando Mendoza (foxsports.com)

“College is great, but that part's behind me. I feel like I've been satisfied with my college career. However, now I'm on to the NFL career. It requires a new skill set. It's a grown man's league.”

— Fernando Mendoza (foxsports.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Mendoza's journey from a small scholarship offer to Heisman Trophy winner and national champion showcases the hard work and perseverance required to reach the highest levels of college football. As he shifts his focus to the NFL, his story will continue to captivate fans as he looks to translate his success to the professional ranks.