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Fernando Mendoza Impresses at Indiana Pro Day

ESPN NFL •
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Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza delivered an impressive performance at his pro day, drawing all 32 NFL teams and over 100 media members to Bloomington. The Heisman Trophy winner threw approximately 56 passes, targeting receivers with short, deep, and medium-range throws to showcase his accuracy and arm strength.

Mendoza's 2025 season included 72% completion rate for 3,535 yards with 41 touchdowns and six interceptions. He led Indiana to its first national championship, defeating football powerhouses Ohio State, Alabama, Oregon, and Miami in succession. The 6-foot-5, 236-pound quarterback arrived at pro day 11 pounds heavier than his listed playing weight, demonstrating his commitment to NFL readiness.

While Mendoza isn't perfect—overthrowing a deep ball to Elijah Sarratt by half a yard—he's already convinced Las Vegas Raiders decision-makers to select him with the No. 1 overall pick. The Raiders, led by minority owner Tom Brady, appear to be an ideal fit for the Boston-born quarterback. Mendoza has met with the Raiders twice and has one more meeting scheduled before the April 23 draft, where he'll begin his professional career.