Top NFL Draft Pick Fernando Mendoza to Watch from Miami

The Heisman Trophy winner plans to celebrate with family and friends on draft day.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 1:36am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a football player in mid-throw motion, with sharp planes of navy, green, and orange overlapping to create a dynamic, multi-angled composition.An abstract, cubist interpretation of a top NFL draft prospect's journey to the big stage.Today in Pittsburgh

Fernando Mendoza, the expected first overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft, will watch the proceedings from Miami with his family and friends rather than attending the event in Pittsburgh, according to a person familiar with his plans. The quarterback led Indiana to the national championship and won the Heisman Trophy last season.

Why it matters

Many top draft prospects choose to attend the draft in person to receive congratulations from the NFL Commissioner, but some players prefer to celebrate in a more private setting with loved ones. Mendoza's decision to watch from Miami reflects a growing trend among elite prospects to control their draft experience.

The details

The Las Vegas Raiders, who hold the first overall pick, have signaled they plan to ease Mendoza into the starting lineup, likely by having veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins start while Mendoza learns from the sideline. Cousins recently signed with the Raiders and is participating in offseason workouts.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place starting April 23 in Pittsburgh.
  • Mendoza won the Heisman Trophy and led Indiana to the national championship last season.

The players

Fernando Mendoza

The expected first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, Mendoza is the Heisman Trophy winner and national champion quarterback from Indiana University.

Kirk Cousins

The veteran quarterback recently signed with the Las Vegas Raiders and is expected to start while Mendoza learns from the sideline.

Roger Goodell

The Commissioner of the National Football League, who traditionally welcomes and congratulates top draft picks at the event.

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What’s next

The 2026 NFL Draft will take place in Pittsburgh starting April 23, where the Las Vegas Raiders will make the first overall selection.

The takeaway

Mendoza's decision to watch the draft from Miami with family and friends rather than attending the event in person reflects a growing trend among elite prospects to control their draft experience and celebrate in a more private setting. This highlights the evolving dynamics between top prospects, teams, and the league as the NFL Draft continues to be a major media spectacle.