Fernando Mendoza Reveals Iconic Quote on Work Ethic from Curt Cignetti Ahead of 2026 NFL Draft

Fernando Mendoza has enjoyed a fast rise to stardom, and he revealed valuable advice from Indiana head coach Curt Cignetti that has helped him stay motivated and "kill complacency."

"You can always get better. Don't get fat and happy," Mendoza said on SportsCenter (10:50 mark). "Stay starving. Stay hungry."

If Mendoza takes that advice into the NFL, he could be on his way to an outstanding career.

Mendoza threw for 3,535 yards and 41 touchdowns last season, adding 276 yards and seven touchdowns on the ground while leading the Hoosiers to a national title.

B/R's NFL Scouting Department considers Mendoza to be the No. 3 overall prospect and the top quarterback in this year's draft class. In the latest mock draft from B/R, Mendoza is projected to go first overall to the Las Vegas Raiders.

The draft will be a huge milestone for Mendoza, who was just a 2-star prospect coming out of high school, but he'll look to avoid getting "fat and happy" as he begins his NFL journey.