Ourlads' Profile:
2026 Guide: What Ourlads’ NFL Scouting Services said about FERNANDO MENDOZA:
Indiana | Hometown: Miami, FL | HT: 6046 | WT: 236 | 40 time: 4.80 | Hand: 0912 | Arm: 3178 | Wing: 7634
Three-year starter. Spent three seasons at California prior to transferring to Indiana in 2025 where he won the National Championship, Heisman Trophy, AP Player of the Year, Davey O'Brien, Maxwell, and Manning Awards. The first-team All-American took a step up in competition and came out the other end better than he had ever been. Prototype frame with the right blend of lean mass and quick twitch. A classic pocket passer with NFL-size and leadership qualities, Mendoza rose to the occasion at every test that was put in front of him. Whether it comes to playing explosive or efficient, deep or intermediate passing, protecting the ball in high-pressure situations, or even coming through with his legs, he checked nearly every box needed as he led Indiana to a historic unbeaten season. From an overlooked recruit to three seasons at California (10-12 record in 22 starts), he went from off-radar to potential number one overall pick via his play on the field with NFL-ready intangibles. An underrated athlete with toughness to scramble and break tackles when needed. Adept at reading defenses and anticipating pre-snap to start off ahead of schedule. Will throw his targets open at all levels. Gets it out on time with precise ball placement to help promote yards after the catch. A reliable decision maker with accuracy in big, high-pressure situations. Had the highest under pressure success rate of an FBS quarterback. Can be trusted to maintain his composure and continues to protect the ball with the pass rush bearing down. Made an abundance of tight-window throws far past the short tier of the route tree. Only three percent of his snaps came under center. Will need to prove he can handle the footwork demands of traditional drop backs. Has some tightness in his release. Not very fluid when he needs to alter his arm angle. Occasionally lacks touch on short over the middle throws. Pure arm power may not get the ball to where it needs to be if he can't step into it. Escapability could be a struggle against top tier NFL pass rushers.
2025 Stats: 273/379, 3535 yds, 72.0%, 41 TD, 6 INT, 276 yds rushing, 7 TD, 182.9 QB rating. Draft projection: 1st round