Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza has surged to the top 2026 NFL draft prospect, according to a new ESPN poll of 25 leagues scouts and executives.
In the latest round of voting, Mendoza received 13 first-place votes, edging out Oregon’s Dante Moore (6) and Alabama’s Ty Simpson (3), despite none of those three receiving a single vote in the initial poll six weeks ago.
Other quarterback included Oklahoma’s John Mateer, Cincinnati’s Brendan Sorsby and South Carolina’s LaNorris Sellers, each with one vote.
“It’s not a stellar class,” one scout told ESPN, noting that the pool becomes more intriguing if underclassmen decide to declare. “The top is better than last year’s class, for sure.”
Mendoza’s rise stems from his development under new Indiana coach Curt Cignetti and offensive coordinator Mike Shanahan. Since transferring from Cal, the 6-foot-5, 225-pound junior has thrown for 25 touchdowns with a 72.3% completion rate and averaged 9.5 yards per attempt. He’s also rushed for four scores.
“He has ‘wow’ throws and playmaking passer ability,” a scout said. “He’s decisive, he sees the field well, and he’s very tough in the pocket.”
Mendoza’s abilities resonated positively with NFL evaluators. While scouts caution he’s not yet a lock to be the No. 1 overall pick, his traits have made him the early favorite to headline the 2026 draft class.
More college football news:
- Deion Sanders buyout, contract details as Colorado Buffaloes coach
- Brian Kelly buyout, contract details as LSU Tigers coach
- Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter suffers major blow during rookie season
- Will Lane Kiffin leave Ole Miss? What to know about latest rumors
- Beloved college football mascot diagnosed with cancer