Indiana secures Fernando Mendoza's replacement in transfer portal

Jeff Hauser

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Indiana secures Fernando Mendoza's replacement in transfer portal image

Indiana moved quickly to secure its next quarterback of the future.

Former TCU Horned Frogs quarterback Josh Hoover has committed to Indiana after visiting Bloomington this weekend, sources told ESPN’s Pete Thamel on Sunday. The move positions Indiana to replace Fernando Mendoza, who is expected to enter the NFL draft. The Heisman Trophy winner will likely be a top five pick and the face of a franchise. 

Hoover became TCU’s starter during the 2023 season and set a school record in 2024 with 3,949 passing yards. He finished the year with 3,472 yards and 29 touchdowns while throwing 13 interceptions and did not play in the Horned Frogs’ Alamo Bowl victory over USC.

With one year of eligibility remaining, Hoover is projected to start for Indiana next season. He enters 2026 as college football’s leading returning passer with 9,629 career yards and ranks second nationally in touchdown passes with 71. Hoover has recorded 16 career 300-yard games and three 400-yard performances.

Hoover originally committed to Indiana during former coach Tom Allen’s tenure before ultimately signing with TCU. Under Curt Cignetti, Indiana has relied heavily on the transfer portal at quarterback, previously landing Kurtis Rourke and Mendoza.

Indiana also added key weapons to support Hoover’s arrival. Michigan State transfer wide receiver Nick Marsh, ESPN’s No. 3 ranked portal wideout, committed Sunday, along with Boston College running back Turbo Richard. On defense, Kansas State edge rusher Tobi Osunsanmi also pledged.

The top-ranked Hoosiers continue to reload as they prepare for a College Football Playoff semifinal against Oregon Ducks in the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl on Jan. 9.

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Contributing Writer