Summary
Fernando Mendoza led the Indiana Hoosiers to a perfect college football season, winning the national championship and the Heisman Trophy. ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. predicts Mendoza will be the first pick in the 2026 NFL draft, likely chosen by the Las Vegas Raiders.
Key Facts
- Fernando Mendoza and the Indiana Hoosiers finished their season undefeated with a 16-0 record.
- They won the national championship by defeating the Miami Hurricanes 27-21.
- Mendoza won the Heisman Trophy, which is given to the best college football player.
- He is predicted to be the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL draft, with the Las Vegas Raiders as the likely team to select him.
- ESPN analyst Mel Kiper Jr. strongly believes Mendoza will be the top draft pick.
- Mendoza transferred to Indiana from Cal, achieving 41 touchdown passes and six interceptions in 2025.
- The 2026 NFL draft will take place in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, from April 23-25.
