Throughout the 2025 college football season, it quickly became clear that Indiana was on another level than all other teams. It also became clear that Fernando Mendoza had reached a level of quarterback play that was teased in previous seasons, but became fully unlocked during the team’s run to the National Championship.
Now, with the 2026 NFL Draft a few weeks away, Mendoza can sit back and relax knowing he’s going to be the first overall pick. The Las Vegas Raiders need a franchise quarterback, and Mendoza is that guy in this draft class. It would be a special moment when Mendoza graces the draft stage in Pittsburgh, but that actually won’t be the case.
That’s because Mendoza is doing things differently than most other first overall picks. Instead of attending the draft and shaking NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell‘s hand once his name is called, Mendoza will be sitting on his couch.
Fernando Mendoza to watch 2026 NFL Draft from home, similar to former Browns and Jaguars No. 1 picks
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported on Tuesday that Mendoza has chosen to have a home draft experience alongside his family in Miami. Mendoza informed the league of his decision this week. While the decision may take the Raiders by surprise, it’s not the first time a first overall pick wasn’t at the draft.
In fact, the Cleveland Browns had back-to-back No. 1 picks who didn’t attend. Myles Garrett in 2017 and Baker Mayfield in 2018 chose to experience the draft from the comfort of their homes. The Jacksonville Jaguars had a similar phenonemon. Trevor Lawrence didn’t attend in 2021, and Travon Walker stayed home in 2022.
The Raiders organization would probably have liked to have pictures of Mendoza sporting the team’s jersey on the stage, but ultimately it was the player’s decision. His strong connection to his family is one of the major reasons he has made it this far.
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