Indiana quarterback Alberto Mendoza plans to enter the transfer portal, according to a report by On3's Pete Nakos. This leaves the defending national champions facing turnover at the position just hours after their title celebration.
Mendoza, a redshirt freshman, departs after serving as the primary backup to his older brother, Fernando Mendoza, who capped a Heisman Trophy season by leading the Indiana Hoosiers to a 27-21 victory over Miami in the College Football Playoff national championship game Monday night. Fernando Mendoza is expected to enter the NFL draft.
The 6-foot-2, 205-pound Mendoza appeared in nine games this season and impressed in limited opportunities. He completed 18 of 24 passes for 286 yards and five touchdowns with one interception, while adding 190 rushing yards on 13 carries. The Miami native showed his playmaking ability, particularly as a runner, flashing starter-level potential.
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Mendoza’s move had been widely anticipated after Indiana signed Josh Hoover, a transfer from TCU who is expected to take over as the Hoosiers’ starting quarterback in 2026. Hoover was a 31-game starter for the Horned Frogs and has thrown for more than 9,600 career yards.
With Indiana positioned to defend its championship, Mendoza would likely have remained in a reserve role.
Entering the portal gives him an opportunity to compete for immediate playing time elsewhere. Players from Indiana and Miami have until Jan. 24 to enter the transfer portal following the conclusion of their seasons.
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