Fernando Mendoza NFL Draft Scouting Report

2026 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza

Fernando Mendoza has emerged as one of the top quarterback prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft class after transferring to Indiana and immediately elevating the Hoosiers’ offense. At 6’5”, 225 pounds, Mendoza brings an ideal NFL frame paired with natural passing instincts, decisive processing, and consistent ball placement on short-to-intermediate throws.

Originally a 3-star recruit in the 2022 class (per 247Sports), Mendoza flashed NFL-level arm talent at California before transferring in 2025 to play under Kurt Cignetti. His command of Indiana’s pro-style/RPO hybrid offense and ability to diagnose coverage post-snap have drawn comparisons to modern system passers like Jared Goff.

Film Summary

Mendoza’s film showcases a composed pocket passer who wins with anticipation, accuracy, and mental processing. He manipulates defenders with his eyes, layers throws over linebackers, and delivers on-time passes into tight windows. His base and mechanics are consistent from clean pockets, and his arm strength allows him to drive the football to all three levels. Though not a dynamic runner, Mendoza has enough mobility to escape pressure and deliver off-platform throws with poise.

Ideal Scheme Fit

Pro-Style / RPO Blend Offense — best suited for timing-based passing attacks emphasizing rhythm, layered route concepts, and pocket efficiency. Fits offenses similar to the Rams, Lions, or Vikings, where timing and anticipation define the quarterback play.

Key Strengths (Film-Based Traits)

• Outstanding size and frame: Ideal 6’5” build with high release and easy velocity generation.

• Advanced processing and anticipation: Quick post-snap reader who identifies coverage rotations and triggers throws rapidly.

• Touch and layering ability: Adjusts trajectory and pace to fit passes over defenders and drop into tight windows.

• Composure under pressure: Keeps eyes downfield and delivers accurately despite pocket collapse.

• Functional mobility: Not a runner, but capable of extending plays and maintaining throwing posture outside structure.

Developmental Areas (Growth Opportunities)

• Deep-ball consistency: Occasionally underthrows or over-strides, leading to placement variance on vertical concepts.

• Pocket mechanics under duress: Feet can drift when pressured; must continue refining reset discipline.

• Decision-making confidence: At times trusts arm too much, forcing throws into congested windows.

• Eye manipulation: Can further develop ability to move safeties and linebackers post-snap to expand throwing lanes.

  
  

Grade and Projection

Ceiling Grade: Near Elite. With continued refinement in pocket mechanics and vertical accuracy, Mendoza could ascend into the lower first-round “Near Elite” range.

NFL Draft Projection: Mid to late 1st round

Pro Comparison: Jared Goff — similar size, rhythm-based accuracy, and anticipatory timing within structure.

Final Analysis

Fernando Mendoza profiles as a polished pocket passer whose game is predicated on timing, anticipation, and mental acuity. He combines a pro-ready frame with efficient mechanics and high-level touch, projecting as one of the safest quarterback prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft.

While he lacks elite off-script athleticism, his field command and operational maturity stand out. In the right fit—particularly a system that values timing and progression-based reads—Mendoza has the tools to become a long-term NFL starter with fringe Pro Bowl upside.