Fernando Mendoza explains his 2026 NFL Draft decision

For many prospects, hearing their name called on draft night in front of a national audience is the dream. But for Fernando Mendoza, the 2026 NFL Draft is about something more personal. Instead of attending the event in Pittsburgh, Mendoza has chosen to stay home, and his reasoning says everything about who he is.

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Choosing Family Over the Spotlight

“Pittsburgh is a great opportunity, and it’s a great venue,” Mendoza said. “It’d be a dream for a lot of guys.” But for him, the decision wasn’t about the stage or the spotlight; it was about the people. “My mom really wanted to do it at home. It’s a lot easier for us, especially with the family situation.”

Fernando Mendoza

Mendoza’s mother, Elsa, has been battling multiple sclerosis for years. Traveling across the country for the draft would have made an already emotional moment more difficult. Staying home allows the family to celebrate together in a way that’s comfortable and meaningful. Sometimes, the biggest moments in sports aren’t about where you are. They’re about who you’re with.

A Journey Worth Sharing

Mendoza’s path to this moment hasn’t been typical. From barely receiving scholarship opportunities to leading the Indiana Hoosiers football team to an undefeated season and the first national championship in program history, his rise has been fueled by a strong support system.

And he wants them there. “I wanted to stay and make the memory with everybody who poured into my football journey,” Mendoza said. “Mentors, coaches, family, friends.”