Oklahoma State QB Drew Mestemaker is generating early NFL Draft buzz; is he the next Fernando Mendoza?

"Operating in an up-tempo version of the Air Raid, Mestemaker is a tall, fluid passer who isn't shy tossing it all over the yard," wrote Brugler. 

So, that settles it. Mestemaker is the next Mendoza. Hold your horses. He's not there ... yet. 

Why Drew Mestemaker isn't yet on the same tier as Fernando Mendoza

Experienced college QBs typically fare better in the NFL. Mestemaker lacks that, as he only started 15 games in two seasons at North Texas, completing 349-of-509 pass attempts (68.6 percent). Mendoza, meanwhile, started 35 games for Indiana and the California Golden Bears, completing 691-of-1,008 pass attempts (68.6 percent). 

Mestemaker, who will be playing in a Power Four conference for the first time in 2026, is also starring for a team that's not ready to contend for a national title. Oklahoma State went 1-11 in 2025. Despite the addition of Mestemaker, the team isn't expected to take a major leap in 2026. As of Thursday, DraftKings Sportsbook lists the Cowboys' odds of winning the Big 12 at +2900.

Indiana, meanwhile, is led by third-year HC Curt Cignetti. Google him; he wins. In his first two seasons with Indiana, he went 27-2. 

Mestemaker should generate more buzz this season playing for a bigger program, but expecting him to reach the same heights as Mendoza is unrealistic. He clearly needs more reps to become a prospect worthy of a No. 1 pick. Assuming he doesn't dominate in 2026, waiting to turn pro until 2028, when the QB class should be less stacked, could be his best choice. 

That said, keep an eye on Mestemaker, who's already made it this far. If he stays on an upward trajectory, he might be the next great draft story like Mendoza.