Fernando Mendoza | 2026 NFL Draft Profile Snapshot Top-50 Players Post NFL Combine
NFL Draft Analyst Will Rock Grades Fernando Mendoza At #5 In The Detroit Football Journal Top-50 Players 2.0
#5 | QB | Fernando Mendoza | Indiana
Ht: 6’ 4-3/4” (6046) | Wt: 236 | Hand: 9.5” | Arm: 31.875” | Wing: 76.75” | Ape: 1.06
2025 Stats: 3,535 Passing Yds (72% Comp) | 41 TD | 6 INT | 90/276 Rushing | 7 TD
Key Stats: 15.8% Pressure Sack Rate | 93.4 Deep | 92.2 Intermediate | 2.63 Avg TTT
PFF: 83.7 Passing Grade | 87.9 Overall
Draft Stock: ⬆️ 7 | Previous Ranking #12
Player Profile Snapshot
Before arriving in Bloomington Mendoza was the definition of a “just-a-guy.” Scouts viewed Mendoza as a low-ceiling prospect who struggled to elevate a team beyond its baseline. Over two seasons at Cal (2023–2024), he was mediocre at best, battling through a 6-7 record both years. While he showed flashes of accuracy, his production was middling: he totaled 30 passing touchdowns against 16 interceptions in 20 starts.
The 2025 transfer to Indiana is where Mendoza completely rewrote his evaluation, transforming from a turnover-prone starter into a Heisman Trophy-winning technician. Directing a historic 16-0 National Championship campaign, he decimated Big Ten defenses, throwing for 3,535 yards, 41 touchdowns, and just six interceptions. He capped off the run by setting Rose Bowl records with an 87.5-percent completion rate and a 250.2 passer rating against Alabama. The tape showcases a hyper-efficient processor operating perfectly on schedule.
