Why Mel Kiper Jr. believes Fernando Mendoza has 'distanced himself' from 2026 draft class

Kiper specifically touched on Mendoza's ability to improve his processing down the field. Instead of just going with his first or second option, Mendoza waited until he could find an open target or even elected to use his legs when he needed to.

Highlighted by his gutsy fourth-down TD run in the CFP National Championship Game, Mendoza joined an exclusive list of Heisman Trophy winners to win the national title, capping off his collegiate career in style.

In a QB class far quieter than recent years, Simpson is the only other signal-caller on Kiper's latest top-25 Big Board, further highlighting the advantage that Mendoza has ahead of them.

In his lone season at Indiana in 2025, Mendoza posted career-highs in completion percentage (72%), passing yards (3,535) and passing TDs (41). His 41 pass TDs and 90.3 QBR led the FBS, while his 276 rush yards and seven rushing TDs were also personal-bests.

With the Las Vegas Raiders holding down the No. 1 pick, there are plenty of weaknesses on the roster to target, including the offensive line and defense. Quarterback, however, is another position of need. In a class where few QBs are expected to go in the first round, that makes Mendoza even more likely to be selected with the first pick if that turns out to be the direction the Raiders want to go. 

A lot can change between now and the draft, which begins on April 23. However, with the improvements that Mendoza made at Indiana and the performance he left out on the field, it would be a surprise if he is not the first player off the board.