Fernando Mendoza’s Big Ten Debut: Can Precision Passer Emerge as a 2026 First-Round QB?

After two seasons developing at Cal—culminating in a breakout 2024 campaign—Fernando Mendoza is ready for the next chapter of his career: leading Indiana into battle against the rugged defenses of the Big Ten. Armed with one of the sharpest arms in the class, high-level ball placement, and underrated mobility, Mendoza brings a refined passing skill set to Bloomington. If he continues his upward trajectory and adjusts to the elevated competition, he could become one of the biggest quarterback risers in the 2026 NFL Draft conversation.

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Fernando Mendoza – QB, Indiana

2026 NFL Draft Prospect

Fernando Mendoza enters the 2025 college football season as a highly intriguing transfer quarterback who blends polished passing mechanics with underrated athleticism and a strong foundation of starting experience. Standing 6-foot-5 and weighing 225 pounds, Mendoza offers a classic frame for a pocket passer, but his game is more dynamic than it might initially appear. After redshirting at Cal in 2022, he emerged as the starter midway through the 2023 season, growing into the role quickly and showing marked improvement as the full-time starter in 2024. Now at Indiana, he’s set to take the reins in the Big Ten, where a tougher slate of competition will test the progress he’s made.

Mendoza’s 2024 campaign was a breakout, as he posted a 68.7% completion rate and a clean 16-to-6 touchdown-to-interception ratio. Compared to his 2023 numbers, where he threw 10 picks in just nine games, it’s clear that he developed greater poise and discipline in his decision-making. That progression speaks to both his mental resilience and growing comfort in handling complex defensive looks. He sees the full field, works through progressions quickly, and demonstrates excellent instincts when flushed out of the pocket. His toughness also stands out—he’s willing to hang in the pocket under pressure and deliver accurate throws even while absorbing contact.