Rumors are swirling around one NFL franchise as coaching vacancies are happening around the league and the draft picture comes into focus.
With several teams expected to be in the market for a new head coach, there's a ton of speculation connected to the Las Vegas Raiders and an ambitious idea. This would be to pair Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with his college head coach, Curt Cignetti, in Sin City.
The idea gained traction after Mike Tannenbaum floated the possibility during an appearance on The Dan Patrick Show. The former NFL GM suggested the Raiders, who recently fired Pete Carroll after one season and now hold the No. 1 overall pick, could attempt to remake the franchise by importing Indiana’s architect and star quarterback together.
“If you get Fernando Mendoza and, in my opinion, someone like Curt Cignetti, who I think would be a fascinating hire, that could be truly transformational,” Tannenbaum said.
A package deal for the #Raiders to get Curt Cignetti alongside Fernando Mendoza? 🤔
— Dan Patrick Show (@dpshow) January 6, 2026
Not a report, but @RealTannenbaum floats the idea of bringing the #Indiana duo to Las Vegas. Pic.twitter.com/tdoXPYdktU
Could Cignetti and Mendoza thrive in the NFL?
Patrick expressed skepticism, noting the long history of college coaches struggling in the NFL. But Tannenbaum pointed to Cignetti’s extensive background and adaptability. He argued that his background differs from many college-to-pro failures.
Cignetti and Mendoza have delivered historic results at Indiana. After Cignetti guided the Hoosiers to a breakthrough season with Kurtis Rourke in 2024, the arrival of Mendoza via transfer elevated the program to unprecedented heights. Indiana captured the Big Ten title and won the Rose Bowl. Mendoza also won the Heisman Trophy, the first in program history.
More: Nick Saban issued a clear warning to Curt Cignetti when he left Alabama
Despite the intrigue, the scenario remains unlikely. Cignetti is expected to receive a major contract extension to stay in Bloomington,
For now, it remains a compelling rumor and more offseason chatter than a realistic expectation.
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