Fernando Mendoza’s Aunt Is Set To Steal The Spotlight At The 2026 NFL Draft

Fernando Mendoza. Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Fernando Mendoza’s Aunt Is Set To Steal The Spotlight At The 2026 NFL Draft

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports | By Orlando Silva | Last updated Apr 23, 2026 5:15 PM ET

Fernando Mendoza prepares for a night that will change the trajectory of his life. The Indiana Hoosiers’ star quarterback made a huge impression during his collegiate career, especially in his junior season.

After transferring from Cal to Indiana, he took the Hoosiers to a perfect 16-0 season and the national championship. As great as he was during that run, Mendoza was overshadowed by a member of his family. The same could happen tonight.

Ahead of the big event, he shared he wouldn’t travel to Pittsburgh due to the toll a flight would take on his mother.

“It’d be a dream for a lot of guys, however, my mom really wanted to do it at home, and so did my parents,” Mendoza said. “It was a lot easier for us, especially with the family situation, and I would have to hop on a plane the next morning anyways. For that travel, it would be a lot easier to stay at home.”

Fernando Mendoza’s Aunt Could Steal The Attention In 2026 Draft

Knowing that he will watch the ceremony at home in Miami, there is a chance that his aunt, Miami commercial real estate agent Ena Espino Pereda, will steal the spotlight. Back in January, the X account “College Sports Only” joked about ESPN potentially having a camera fully focused on Mendoza’s aunt.

Of course, that wasn’t serious. However, fans may be waiting to see as much of Mendoza’s aunt as possible during the broadcast. Being the No. 1 pick would limit his time on screen, but anything could happen.

This article first appeared on Total Pro Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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