Projected No. 1 NFL Draft Pick Opts to Celebrate at Home in Miami

Fernando Mendoza will not attend the draft in Pittsburgh, choosing to share the moment with family and friends in his hometown.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 10:48pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a football player in mid-throw motion, with the figure broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of navy blue, emerald green, and crimson red, capturing the raw energy and movement of the sport.Mendoza's decision to celebrate his NFL draft selection in Miami reflects the personal significance of this milestone for the young quarterback.Miami Today

Fernando Mendoza, the expected No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, has informed the league that he will not be attending the draft in Pittsburgh. Instead, the Heisman-winning quarterback from Indiana University will celebrate the momentous occasion with his family and friends in his hometown of Miami.

Why it matters

Mendoza's decision to celebrate his selection in Miami is a meaningful one, as the city holds deep personal significance for the young QB. Not only is it where he grew up dreaming of becoming a pro, but it's also the site of his biggest college football triumph - leading Indiana to the national championship in Miami's own stadium.

The details

Mendoza, who is widely projected to be taken first overall by the Las Vegas Raiders, has been preparing diligently for his transition to the NFL. However, he wants to experience the life-changing moment of being drafted surrounded by the people and places that mean the most to him.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled to take place in Pittsburgh later this month.

The players

Fernando Mendoza

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

Las Vegas Raiders

The NFL team that is widely projected to select Mendoza with the first pick in the 2026 draft.

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What they’re saying

“Projected No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza has informed the NFL that he is not planning to attend the NFL Draft in Pittsburgh this month, per sources. Mendoza wants to share the draft experience with his family in Miami.”

— Adam Schefter, ESPN Senior Insider

What’s next

Mendoza will await the Raiders' selection in Miami, where he will celebrate being drafted and prepare to begin his NFL career in Las Vegas.

The takeaway

Mendoza's decision to celebrate his NFL draft selection in his hometown of Miami reflects the personal significance of the moment and his desire to share it with the people and places that have meant the most to him on his journey to the pros.