How Fernando Mendoza helped teammates’ draft stocks
The NFL is only a few weeks away from the 2026 NFL Draft. Pro Days have wound down, and teams are setting their draft boards. After skipping the NFL Combine drills, quarterback Fernando Mendoza decided to throw at Indiana’s Pro Day.
He did not necessarily need to. MORE: Kirk Cousins’ contract sends message about Raiders’ Fernando Mendoza plans Mendoza appears to be the biggest lock at number one overall since Caleb Williams was drafted in 2024. The Las Vegas Raiders have also signed his veteran mentor.
Fernando Mendoza participates in Indiana University’s Pro Day at Mellencamp Pavilion on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. (Rich Janzaruk/Herald-Times / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images) However, Mendoza still threw for one reason: to help his teammates. He spoke to the media shortly after his Pro Day about why he took part in an extended throwing session.
“You know quarterbacks have passed, have done shorter pro days than that. However, I just wanted to make sure everybody could showcase their abilities in front of all 32 NFL teams and really run routes that are applicable to the timing we’re going to be running in the NFL. ” Mendoza said to the Associated Press .
Mendoza not only showed the Raiders they will likely be making the right choice, but he also demonstrated his leadership. Any quarterback in his position could have declined or shortened their Pro Day. MORE: Should the Los Angeles Rams trade Puka Nacua?