Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza won’t be present at this year’s NFL Draft due to a prior commitment.
On Thursday, Mendoza is among the college football standouts who are hoping to hear their name called in the 2026 draft, as he himself is projected to be the No. 1 overall pick in the first round.
Despite being hailed as the top pick overall, Mendoza won’t attend the draft and will instead be at home, a commitment he made to his mother, Elsa.
Fernando Mendoza has chosen to hear his name called at home so that he can immediately celebrate with his mother. This is because a post by @espnw on Instagram confirms that Elsa Mendoza is diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.
“Fernando Mendoza’s mom, Elsa, has been his biggest fan and inspiration, so the projected No. 1 pick in the NFL draft is choosing to spend draft night at home to celebrate with her ❤️,” @espnw on Instagram captioned with a red heart emoji.
Given his mother’s condition, it seems they can’t attend the draft night. Nevertheless, the young talent is looking forward to seeing how the draft will go virtually from his home. Mendoza is coming off an undefeated 2025 campaign with coach Curt Cignetti’s Indiana-based program, in which they had an overall record of 16-0 (9-0 Big Ten) en route to winning this year’s national championship.
Fernando Mendoza Previously Offered Up His 2025 Heisman Trophy As His Mother’s Award As Well
In the same post by @espnw on Instagram, a video was included from when Fernando Mendoza had his acceptance speech for the 2025 Heisman Trophy, which is the distinction given to the best player from every college football season.
In the said clip, Mendoza was visibly emotional talking about his mother, Elsa. In the process, Fernando Mendoza went on to claim that the 2025 Heisman Trophy is as much his as his mother’s.
“ Mommy, this is your trophy as much as it is mine. You’ve always been my biggest fan. You’re my light. You’re my why. You’re my biggest supporter. Your sacrifices, courage, love, those have been my first playbook and the playbook that I’m gonna carry through my side, through my entire life. You taught me that toughness doesn’t need to be loud. It can be quiet and strong. It’s choosing hope,” Mendoza said.
“It’s believing in yourself when the world doesn’t give you much reason to. Together, you and I are rewriting what people think is possible. I love you,” he continued.
Read More: “He’s Got a Lot of Peyton Manning in Him”: Mel Kiper Jr. Drops Bold Comparison Between Fernando Mendoza and 2x Super Bowl Champ
Also Read: “He’s Way Ahead”: Louis Riddick Shares Exciting Fernando Mendoza Insight amid Starting QB Battle with Kirk Cousins
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