A Team-First Approach at Pro Day
With Fernando Mendoza widely expected to be the number one overall selection in the 2026 NFL Draft, his individual performance at Indiana’s Pro Day was never going to drastically change his draft stock. Instead, the quarterback used the event, attended by representatives from all 32 NFL franchises, to facilitate a showcase for his fellow players.
During the session this Wednesday, Mendoza completed approximately 56 passes. He later expressed that his primary motivation for such an extensive workout was to provide his teammates with the best possible platform to demonstrate their skills to professional scouts.
Reflecting on a Successful Season
«I feel like it went great. You know quarterbacks have passed, have done shorter pro days than that. However, I just wanted to make sure everybody could showcase their abilities in front of all 32 NFL teams and really run routes that are applicable to the timing we’re going to be running in the NFL,» Mendoza noted, according to reporting by the Associated Press.
Beyond the logistical benefits for his peers, Mendoza described the workout as a sentimental gesture of appreciation for the success the Indiana program achieved during the 2025 season. As he looks toward the draft in three weeks, where he is anticipated to be selected by the Raiders, he remains focused on seeing where his teammates will eventually begin their own professional journeys across the league.