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Fernando Mendoza has positioned himself as a top prospect for the NFL. Perhaps no player with such potential to become a great in the league has emerged before even arriving, like Mendoza, since the days of John Elway and Dan Marino.
However, some analysts are not entirely convinced and are reluctant to align with the majority opinion that supports these expectations. In their evaluations, they may be seeing elements that the broader public is overlooking.
One of them is NFL analyst Greg Cosell, who conducted a detailed study of the former Indiana Hoosiers quarterback, Fernando Mendoza, as he heads into the 2026 Draft projected as the first overall selection.
Greg Cosell's analysis of Fernando Mendoza
For Cosell, Mendoza possesses many positive traits, such as:
- Ability to throw the ball
- Timing
- Movement
- Accuracy
- Several others
Despite all these attributes that make him stand out, and despite being widely considered the expected pick for the Las Vegas Raiders, Cosell identifies several red flags in the signal-caller. From the analyst's perspective, Mendoza needs significant improvement in:
- Throwing tempo
- Pocket awareness
- Throw power
- Ability to deliver the ball on third down
Fernando Mendoza was the best in college football in 2025
The Indiana Hoosiers were not only the underdog story of the 2025 season, but they also helped their quarterback, Fernando Mendoza, become the best player of the year. Although many place him on par with Ty Simpson of the Alabama Crimson Tide.
- 3,535 yards
- 41 touchdowns
- 6 interceptions
- 6-foot-5
- 225 pounds
These were the quarterback's numbers, as he appears to have one foot and a half in Las Vegas, though it will not become official until Roger Goodell announces his name.
Additionally, the signal-caller was instrumental in leading his university to an undefeated championship, delivering a spectacular performance against the Miami Hurricanes in the CFP final.
Now, all that remains is to wait for confirmation that he will join the Raiders and, alongside Klimt Kubiak, the new head coach of the silver and black, restore strength to a team that has lost its edge over several years.
Even with the concerns raised, Mendoza's projection remains among the highest in recent memory, and expectations surrounding his transition to the professional level continue to generate debate across league circles and among analysts evaluating quarterback development and long-term potential at the next stage.