Overview
- Mendoza announced his decision on social media Friday, formally entering the 2026 draft pool.
- He led Indiana to a 16-0 season and its first national championship, winning the Heisman after completing 72% for 3,535 yards, 41 touchdowns and six interceptions, plus seven rushing scores.
- He elevated his stock in the College Football Playoff with eight touchdown passes and no interceptions.
- With Dante Moore returning to Oregon, analysts broadly rate Mendoza as the clear top quarterback in this class and a candidate for the first pick.
- Las Vegas holds the No. 1 selection after a 3-14 year and a coaching change from Pete Carroll, and pre-draft evaluations now lead into the April 23–25 draft in Pittsburgh.