NFL Exec Drops Hot Take Comparing Fernando Mendoza, Jaxson Dart, Cam Ward in 2025, 2026 Drafts

One NFL executive feels Fernando Mendoza would have been the third-best quarterback available in the 2025 NFL draft.

"He would have been No. 3 for me last year behind Jaxson Dart and Cam Ward," the executive told Fox Sports' Eric Williams. "He's a pocket QB with quick eyes and a quick release. He processes coverage and pressure at a high rate. Good arm strength and excellent accuracy. He's tough and shows poise in high-stress situations. Excellent make-up. NFL starter." 

Mendoza is currently projected as the No. 1 pick in Bleacher Report's 2026 mock draft.

Mendoza, who just led Indiana to a historic 16-0 season and national championship, was ranked as the top quarterback and No. 4 overall prospect available in the upcoming draft on Bleacher Report's latest big board.

The B/R big board from this time last year had Ward ranked as the top quarterback and No. 8 prospect available.

Dart was ranked as the No. 4 quarterback, behind Shedeur Sanders and Will Howard, as well as the No. 75 overall prospect.

The Tennessee Titans ultimately took Ward at the top of the draft, as expected, while the New York Giants picked Dart higher than expected with the No. 25 selection.

NFL Network analyst Daniel Jeremiah recently said in a conference call ahead of this week's scouting combine that he would have Mendoza "just a tick above" both Ward in the 2025 draft as well as 2023 No. 1 pick Bryce Young.

Jeremiah noted, however, that he would rank Mendoza behind Caleb Williams, Drake Maye and Jayden Daniels in the quarterback-heavy 2024 draft.

The Las Vegas Raiders are currently projected to take Mendoza at the top of the draft, especially after Dante Moore's return to Oregon made Mendoza a consensus QB1.

New York Jets general manager Darren Mougey, who holds the No. 2 pick in the upcoming draft, said Tuesday he's spoken with Raiders general manager John Spytek but doesn't expect to pull off a potential trade for the top selection.

Scouts might have to wait until Indiana's pro day on April 1 to get another look at Mendoza. The quarterback will be attending the combine but not participating in drills this week in Indianapolis.