Is Fernando Mendoza the Next Joe Burrow? Colin Cowherd Weighs In on the Bold Comparison Ahead of the NFL Draft

Fernando Mendoza is the undisputed No. 1 pick for the 2026 NFL Draft that’s set to take place from April 23-25. Mendoza had a thrilling year with the Indiana Hoosiers during the 2025 season, which he ended with an undefeated national championship run by getting his hands on the Heisman Trophy.

When talking about an observation that highlights that Mendoza’s career trajectory in the last 10 years resembles that of Joe Burrow the most, Colin Cowherd shared his thoughts. He pointed out that Burrow was a higher graded player and is also more athletic than Mendoza, while adding that the Indiana star is bigger and stronger.

“They have a ton in common, though when you think about it, both were unbelievable their last year in college. Both won the Heisman, both won Natties. They’re pocket-based, although Burrow moves better. Both were transfers. Both late bloomers, not dominant the year before they popped in college. Both had 16 touchdown patches passes the year before they were drafted. They were just okay. They weren’t really on anybody’s radar,” he said.

“Both are pocket-based. Both highly accurate. Burrow’s number one skill is accuracy, and very rarely makes a mistake in the red zone. That’s exactly Mendoza’s strength, ball placement. In fact, Burrow at LSU at the time was the best conference completed 76% of his throws. Mendoza in the Big 10 wins a natty in the best conference now in college football, completed 72%. Both come from humble parents, they’re family kids.” Cowherd added.

Troy Aikman Sends a Blunt Message to the Raiders Before They Pick Fernando Mendoza

While almost all the analysts believe that the Raiders are lucky to get Fernando Mendoza as the No. 1 overall pick, some analysts are concerned about the upcoming union.

Some have questioned whether the Raiders are the best option for Mendoza to grow and excel in his career. Joining the list, Troy Aikman said he likes Menoza, his accuracy, his toughness, and his ability to perform on the big stage. The analyst also pointed out that while playing under Tom Brady does help your growth in the game, Mendoza is not going to be directly involved in day-to-day activities.

”There’s still a lot going on within that organization. But I like the young man, and I’ll be pulling for him. I root for all these guys to do well, and I’ll be rooting for him when he gets his chance.” Aikman said on ‘New Heights.’