Fernando Mendoza 2026 NFL mock draft: latest prediction for Indiana Quarterback

The 2026 NFL Draft is approaching fast and league scouts are solidifying their big boards. Quarterback Fernando Mendoza could be among the players who hear their name called early in Pittsburgh this week when the NFL welcomes its newest class of rookies.

USA TODAY Sports has all the latest on where the prospect out of Indiana may land.

Here's how USA TODAY's latest mock draft currently projects draft day will play out for the former college star.

Fernando Mendoza 2026 NFL Draft prediction: Pick No. 1 overall, Las Vegas Raiders

Nate Davis' Fit Analysis:

This is one pick that wont be traded, Silver and Black GM John Spytek saying Tuesday that, "We've gotten a few calls, and those teams know where they stand right now." He added, There's only one team that can get the exact person that they want. And we have that option available to us this year, if we so choose." Oh, they've chosen, if not yet officially. Mendoza, the Hoosiers championship-minted Heisman Trophy winner, will be the man charged with leading the Raiders back to Super Bowl glory more than four decades after they last hoisted the Lombardi Trophy. And credit to Spytek for quickly trying to rebuild the infrastructure that will support Mendoza, including the addition of veteran QB Kirk Cousins his presence ensuring Las Vegas wont have to play their prize before its time.

Ayrton Ostly's Big Board Rank: No. 4

Mendoza won the Heisman Trophy in what's been an unprecedented year for the Hoosiers program. He has NFL size at 6-foot-5 and 225 pounds with a surprisingly quick release. His arm talent fits the bill but what stands out on tape from Mendoza is his post-snap processing. That football IQ gives him a high floor in the NFL even if his ceiling is capped by his good-but-not-great mobility and arm talent.

See the full big board here