IU Quarterback And Heisman Winner, Fernando Mendoza, Goes First In NFL Draft

Heisman Winner Lands Top Pick In NFL Draft

Indiana Hoosier fans have something else to be proud of this year: the school's first-ever top draft pick. That's right, IU's football team has never produced a number one draft pick...ever. At least until now. The Hoosier quarterback who helped lead the team to an undefeated season and the National Championship went number one in the NFL Draft to the Las Vegas Raiders. Mendoza is the first quarterback drafted by the Raiders since they selected JaMarcus Russell in 2007. Mendoza won't be able to just coast in and start, however. Kirk Cousins, a 15-year veteran of the league, will also be vying for the top spot, as well as four-year veteran Aidan O'Connell. The Raiders have said they prefer not to start a rookie quarterback, but it's fair game, and the best player will get the start.

Tough Road Ahead For Mendoza To Get Starting Spot

Not only is Mendoza going into the Raiders as a rookie, who generally see limited playing time, but he also has the legend of Kirk Cousins to compete with. Cousins is one of the top three highest earners, at any position, to play in the NFL. Known for getting guaranteed contracts, his most recent one with the Raiders was just penned in 2026, and is a five-year deal, with only one year guaranteed. For Mendoza, that's just the tip of the iceberg. He still has Aiden O'Connell to beat as well. However, while the Raiders might appear to be vicious and scary, Cousins is the exact opposite. In fact, Cousins might be one of the best things for Mendoza. They share a lot of similar qualities and seem to hold the same values, on and off the field. Mendoza getting his rookie year to learn from Cousins might be the best fit at the end of the day. I can absolutely see them watching game film while eating their dinosaur nuggets and mac and cheese.