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Fernando Mendoza Scouting Report

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Luke Easterling | Last updated Jan 19, 2026 6:00 AM ET

Here's everything NFL Draft fans need to know about Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza:

Height: 6-5

Weight: 225

Age: 22

Strengths

A big, accurate passer, Mendoza’s ideal height gives him a valuable vantage point from which he can deliver the ball to all levels of the field. He throws with consistent touch and anticipation, layering throws with precision and leading his targets into open grass to help create natural separation from defenders. Mendoza throws a pretty deep ball, and he’s not afraid to be aggressive downfield, giving his playmakers the opportunity to make a play on the ball. He’s got adequate athleticism for a bigger quarterback, with the ability to navigate a muddy pocket and still keep his eyes downfield, as well as pick up valuable yards and move the chains when forced to use his legs as a runner. Mendoza is a vocal leader with valuable intangible traits.

Weaknesses

Many top quarterback prospects bring “arm arrogance” to the NFL level, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. But where Mendoza’s gets him in trouble is when he locks onto a particular receiver, or gets to a target late in his progression, and still thinks he can put enough juice on the ball to make up for a bad decision. He needs to learn when to abandon a lost play instead of serving up takeaways with late, difficult throws. He’s a decent athlete, but Mendoza doesn’t have the speed or explosiveness to run away from more fleet-footed defenders. He could use a little extra bulk on his tall, lean frame before he starts getting hit by pro defenses.

Final Analysis

With his prototypical height and arm talent, Mendoza checks plenty of physical boxes NFL teams are looking for in a potential franchise passer. He’s athletic enough to get out of trouble and maybe a little extra, and he’s a nuanced thrower who can win with velocity or touch. Throw in his leadership qualities, and you’ve got a recipe for a quality starter if he can avoid those late reads and turnover-worthy throws.