INDIANAPOLIS — A national championship run and a Heisman Trophy have already cemented Fernando Mendoza’s legacy at Indiana. Now, as the quarterback is widely expected to be selected by the Las Vegas Raiders in the upcoming NFL draft, his former Hoosiers teammates are offering a glimpse into what the franchise can expect.
Cornerback D’Angelo Ponds, who met with the Raiders during the NFL combine, said he told the team that drafting him would be a blessing. “They’re getting a great quarterback,” Ponds said. “A guy who can do it all. He’s a smart guy who can break down your coverages, he knows what coverage you’re in. He can make any throw, and he’s also a mobile guy.”
Center Pat Coogan highlighted Mendoza’s communication skills. “Very clear and concise, and his ability to get his message across, you know, quickly, concise, was very impressive,” Coogan said. “He knows exactly what he’s talking about. He knows exactly what he’s looking for. He knows the play calls inside and out.”
Wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. described Mendoza as “a great leader, a great down-to-earth guy, someone who loves football as well. And he’s going to do whatever it takes to help his team win, and he showcased that this year.” Fellow receiver Elijah Sarratt added, “They’re going to expect a dog, first of all, no matter what happens to him, no matter how much he gets hit, he’s going to continue to get up, man.”
Tight end Riley Nowakowski praised Mendoza’s accuracy and attention to detail. “He always puts the ball exactly where he wants it to be,” Nowakowski said. “He’s very particular. He’s very detailed in that way. So that’s how he approaches everything, and it’s what makes him great.”
Linebacker Aiden Fisher credited Mendoza’s leadership for elevating his own game. “As a leader, they’re getting the best,” Fisher said. “He’s somebody who just elevates everybody around him.” Safety Louis Moore, who faced Mendoza daily in practice, noted his poise and running ability. “I don’t think he threw too many picks against us this year,” Moore said. “He goes through his progressions. He doesn’t stare down receivers. He gives drops.”
