Fernando Mendoza reveals why he's skipping 2026 NFL Draft
New York Post • • sports
Key Points:
- Fernando Mendoza will not attend the Thursday NFL draft in Pittsburgh, choosing instead to celebrate his selection with family and friends at home in Miami due to his mother’s multiple sclerosis and mobility challenges.
- Mendoza emphasized the importance of sharing the moment with a larger group of people who supported his football journey, rather than limiting it to a small gathering in Pittsburgh.
- Despite not attending in person, Mendoza will have cameras present to capture his reaction to being selected No. 1 overall by the Las Vegas Raiders.
- Mendoza’s media appearances are expected to take place on Friday in Las Vegas, where he will participate in official draft-related events.
- The Heisman Trophy winner and national champion transferred from California to Indiana and rose from a modest recruiting profile to become a top NFL prospect.
