Mendoza Skips NFL Draft, Chooses Family Over Spotlight

0:00On April 23rd, Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, the projected number one overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft is passing on the Pittsburgh stage this Thursday night. Even after the league tapped Peyton Manning to sweet talk him into showing up, Mendoza's sticking to his plan to watch from home. League folks reached out to Manning, hoping he'd nudge Mendoza to rearrange his travel, but no dice. It's all about family. His mom battles multiple sclerosis and gets around in a wheelchair, making Miami way more practical for the big moment. Mendoza opened up earlier this week, saying Pittsburgh's cool, but he wants to share the draft with mentors, coaches, family, and friends who've shaped. His path not just a handful on-site. Last time, a top prospect skipped was Trevor Lawrence in 2021, chilling with his crew in Georgia. This 2025 Heisman winner lit up college football last season, throwing for 3535 yards, 41 touchdowns, and only six picks. He led Indiana to their first national championship ever

1:04and snagged the Manning Award too. Raiders hold the top spot and look set to grab him with the camera crew parked at the Mendoza House to catch every reaction live. Family bives over the spotlight, smart play for a future star. You've been listening to NFL News today, AI-powered football coverage.