Kicking off a 21-day series in constructing the Steelers' big board in the first round, I start with who I believe is atop their list: Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
FERNANDO MENDOZA
• Position: Quarterback• College: Indiana (2025), California (2023-24)• Class: R-Junior• Age: 22• Height: 6-5• Weight: 236• Hand: 9 1/2"• Arms: 31 7/8"
2025 STATS
• Passing: 273 for 379 (72%), 3,535 yards, 41 touchdowns, 6 interceptions, 90.3 QBR (1st in FBS)
• Rushing: 90 carries, 276 yards, 7 touchdowns
STRENGTHS
• Ideal frame for quarterback position
• Proven success playing in the pocket
• High-level accuracy, anticipation
• Polished mechanics
• Comes through in the clutch
WEAKNESSES
• Doesn’t possess elite arm talent
• Played in a quarterback-friendly system
• Lacks consistent ability to extend
• Can struggle with pressure from the middle
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THE ASYLUM
2026 NFL Draft Big Board: Fernando Mendoza
Kicking off a 21-day series in constructing the Steelers' big board in the first round, I start with who I believe is atop their list: Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
FERNANDO MENDOZA
• Position: Quarterback
• College: Indiana (2025), California (2023-24)
• Class: R-Junior
• Age: 22
• Height: 6-5
• Weight: 236
• Hand: 9 1/2"
• Arms: 31 7/8"
2025 STATS
• Passing: 273 for 379 (72%), 3,535 yards, 41 touchdowns, 6 interceptions, 90.3 QBR (1st in FBS)
• Rushing: 90 carries, 276 yards, 7 touchdowns
STRENGTHS
• Ideal frame for quarterback position
• Proven success playing in the pocket
• High-level accuracy, anticipation
• Polished mechanics
• Comes through in the clutch
WEAKNESSES
• Doesn’t possess elite arm talent
• Played in a quarterback-friendly system
• Lacks consistent ability to extend
• Can struggle with pressure from the middle
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Want an ad-free experience?
Become a member, and enjoy premium benefits!
We’d love to have you!