Indiana quarterback and main candidate to be the first global selection of the NFL Draft, Fernando Mendozawill not launch during the NFL Scouting Combineaccording to reports close to the process. The Heisman Trophy winner chose to appear at the Indiana Pro Day on April 1, where he will show his skills to scouts and executives.
The decision is not surprising within the draft environment, as many prospects with high projected value prefer to display themselves in more controlled environments to maximize their pre-draft performance.
A historic season that places him as a number 1 favorite
Mendoza enters the pre-draft process after an outstanding campaign in 2025. The quarterback threw for 3,535 yards, 41 touchdowns and only six interceptions, completing 72% of his passes. In addition, he led the Hoosiers to the first national championship in their history, capping a perfect season that skyrocketed his value in the rankings.
His performance established him as the most sought-after passer in the class, with several franchises in need of an offensive leader closely following his evolution.
Ty Simpson will pitch in Indianapolis
While Mendoza chooses to wait, former Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson will participate in the Combine’s throwing tests. Considered the consensus number two among available quarterbacks — following Dante Moore’s decision to return to Oregon in 2026 — Simpson will look to bolster his draft position.
The 23-year-old passer closed the 2025 season with 3,567 yards, 28 touchdowns and five interceptions, in addition to a 64.5% completion rate. However, he was benched during the playoffs when Alabama faced Mendoza’s team.
Raiders, Jets and Cardinals lead a Draft full of expectations
Combine activities begin this week in Indianapolis, although the quarterbacks won’t take the field until Saturday. The focus will be on how the top talents position themselves ahead of the NFL Draft, which will be held April 23-25 in Pittsburgh.
The Las Vegas Raiders, New York Jets and Arizona Cardinals currently hold the top three picks, which could define the fate of Mendoza and Simpson in one of the most anticipated quarterback classes in recent years.
