BLOOMINGTON, Ind. – Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza demonstrated his professional football readiness during Wednesday’s pro day workout, delivering an impressive performance that caught the attention of NFL scouts, particularly from the Las Vegas Raiders.
The Heisman Trophy winner completed an outstanding 53 of 56 passes during his 20-minute throwing session, appearing bigger, stronger and faster than when he first declared for the draft months ago. Mendoza has bulked up to 236 pounds, adding 11 pounds since the national championship game.
“I’m trying to be the best me possible. Whatever team picks me, you only need one team to believe in you,” Mendoza stated. “Whether I’m the first pick or the last pick, I’m trying to be the best quarterback possible in September.”
The Raiders have shown clear interest in Mendoza, with this marking their third meeting. The team previously conducted a Zoom call and formal interview at February’s NFL Scouting Combine. On Wednesday, at least 10 Raiders organization members attended the workout, including General Manager John Spytek and Head Coach Klint Kubiak, who watched intently throughout the session.
Mendoza’s performance was nearly flawless, with only one overthrown pass on a 60-yard attempt to Elijah Sarratt. His precision throw to EJ Williams – launched from one 40-yard line and caught in stride at the 6-yard line – drew audible reactions from watching scouts at Indiana’s indoor practice facility.
“I think the main goal today was to serve my teammates,” Mendoza explained, noting he skipped the NFL Scouting Combine workout to bring more attention to his Indiana colleagues. “I think I was able to do that. Be able to put them in position to be able to make plays.”
Other Hoosiers also impressed during the workout. Cornerback D’Angelo Ponds ran a blazing 4.31-second 40-yard dash, complementing his 43.5-inch vertical jump recorded at the combine.
Running back Roman Hemby, who began draft preparation immediately after the championship game, praised Mendoza’s leadership and character.
“That’s a guy that’s a great leader, a great person,” Hemby said. “He doesn’t have to do some of the things he does. He wanted to go out there and showcase the guys. That shows the type of person he is. That’s why we love him.”
With the Raiders holding the first pick in the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh later this month, Mendoza’s name appears likely to be called early in the selection process.
