Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza. Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Fernando Mendoza makes significant decision on NFL Draft

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Grey Papke | Last updated Apr 7, 2026 1:59 PM ET

Likely No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza has made a significant decision regarding the NFL Draft.

Mendoza has informed the NFL that he does not intend to attend the draft in person. Instead of traveling to Pittsburgh, he plans to watch the draft with family and friends in Miami.

Projected No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza has informed the NFL that he is not planning to attend the NFL Draft in Pittsburgh this month, per sources. Mendoza wants to share the draft experience with his family in Miami. pic.twitter.com/ApUc7UmIDX
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 7, 2026

It is rare for a top pick to pass on the NFL Draft, but not unprecedented. Trevor Lawrence did so in 2021 when he, too, was considered a slam dunk to go first overall.

Mendoza undoubtedly knows where he is going. Nobody is making it much of a secret. Perhaps Mendoza’s decision would be different were the draft in Las Vegas or somewhere nearby, but knowing how tight Mendoza is with his family, this is perfectly in character for him.

While Mendoza is headed to the Raiders, he appears unlikely to start in Week 1. Either way, he is clearly the future of the franchise, whether he is present in Pittsburgh or not.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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