Fernando Mendoza Talks Decision to Throw at Indiana Pro Day Instead of NFL Combine Amid Raiders Buzz

Fernando Mendoza explained his decision to throw at Indiana's pro day instead of the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine.

"At the combine, you're throwing to different receivers, it's a whole different thing," Mendoza said during a Friday appearance on the Pat McAfee Show (h/t ESPN's Mark Schlabach). "And I want to make sure I give my guys the best chance. I want to throw at pro day with my guys, with my running backs and be there with the boys.

"The combine, I don't think throwing's going to be a priority just because it's such a quick turnaround."

Mendoza previously revealed that he'd attend the combine, but he won't be participating in any drills.

The 22-year-old is a strong candidate to be selected by the Las Vegas Raiders with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft. Raiders majority owner Mark Davis and minority owner Tom Brady were both in attendance as Mendoza and Indiana defeated Miami in the College Football Playoff Championship Game.

Mendoza earned Heisman Trophy honors for his 2025 season, completing 72.0 percent of his throws for 3,535 yards and 41 touchdowns compared to six interceptions.

His stance on throwing at Indiana's pro day is admirable, as he'd give his Hoosier teammates a chance to boost their draft stock with a familiar option at quarterback during the event.

Indiana wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr., running back Roman Hemby, wide receiver Elijah Sarratt, tight end Riley Nowakowski and running back Kaelon Black were all listed among the top 225 draft prospects on the latest big board from Bleacher Report's NFL Scouting Department.

Meanwhile, the combine will begin on Feb. 26.