Thursday nights are quite the celebration in the Mendoza home.
As anticipated, there was an outburst of joy when former Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza was chosen by the Raiders as the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Viewers saw him in his childhood home in Coral Gables, Florida, next to his mother, Elsa. She uses a wheelchair due to multiple sclerosis and was visibly emotional during this milestone.
The Heisman Trophy winner and his mother sported Raiders hats and shared a heartfelt hug, soaking in the moment together.
ESPN’s cameras captured the excitement as friends and family celebrated in the backyard while NFL commissioner Roger Goodell announced his name.
Mendoza, 22, had already spoken to his mother, whom he refers to as his “best friend.”
On April 7, he opted out of attending the draft in Pittsburgh, citing travel complications, and instead chose to enjoy the evening with his family.
Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis 15 years ago, Elsa faces certain challenges that made the trip difficult. “My parents really wanted to do it at home, and it just seemed easier for us,” Mendoza explained on “The Rich Eisen Show.”
“I want to create memories with everyone who has supported my journey—my family, coaches, and friends. This is a better way to celebrate rather than limiting it to just a few people in Pittsburgh.”
This decision meant that he wouldn’t participate in media interviews or wear the jersey on stage alongside Tom Brady or other Raiders figures, delaying those moments until Friday in Las Vegas.
Mendoza became the first No. 1 pick to miss the draft event since Trevor Lawrence chose to celebrate with family in Clemson rather than go to Cleveland in 2021.
His selection as the top pick was widely expected, especially after winning the Heisman Trophy and leading the Hoosiers to a national championship victory over Miami in January.
While the Raiders have veteran Kirk Cousins to guide Mendoza during his preparation, they are actively gearing up for their new star’s arrival.
Las Vegas has been busy in the offseason, taking significant steps to enhance the team, including a high-profile signing of center Tyler Linderbaum.
Raiders general manager John Spytek commented last week, “the best player is going to play,” although they aren’t looking to rush Mendoza into action. He acknowledged the complexities involved in the quarterback position.
For now, Mendoza is focused on celebrating this new chapter with his family.
