Former Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who is viewed as the top prospect for the 2026 NFL Draft, shared an intriguing story about an unusual suggestion from team executives. He indicated that they implied he might be arrested to improve his draft position. Mendoza is favored to be picked first overall by the Las Vegas Raiders, yet he’s speaking to other teams at the NFL Combine.
In a conversation with CBS Sports on Friday, Mendoza mentioned that the idea of his potential arrest came up when he was asked about the oddest questions he faced during the Combine. “I was a little confused because I was like, ‘Hey, maybe you should be arrested,’ but then I thought, slide…that way I can slide in the draft,” he remarked.
He chose not to disclose which team had made the suggestion but quipped, “So I hope I don’t get arrested.” Mendoza has emerged as a standout quarterback prospect after leading Indiana University to an unprecedented 16-0 season, culminating in a national championship and earning the Heisman Trophy. He logged impressive stats during the 2025 season, with 3,535 passing yards, 41 touchdowns, and just six interceptions.
Interestingly, with Oregon quarterback Dante Moore opting to return for another year, other teams in search of a quarterback, aside from the Raiders, may not find many appealing options in this draft. Other names like Ty Simpson, Drew Aller, and Garrett Nussmeier might not stand up to Mendoza’s potential.
