2026 NFL Draft: South Florida’s Fernando Mendoza goes No. 1 to Raiders

PITTSBURGH — The countdown is on for the 2026 NFL Draft, with hundreds of players — including several South Florida standouts — set to hear their names called Thursday night in Pittsburgh.

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Fernando Mendoza, a former Indiana Hoosiers star and standout at Christopher Columbus High School in Miami, was selected first overall by the Las Vegas Raiders following a Heisman Trophy-winning, national championship season.

The 22-year-old quarterback has remained in South Florida in recent days and is expected to celebrate the moment with family in Coral Gables rather than attend the draft in person.

“The last five months has been such a blessing by God. I can’t thank Him enough. I’m looking forward to getting to work,” Mendoza told ESPN after being drafted. “College was fantastic. I’m so blessed to have that career. Now i step into a great game into the NFL. Looking forward to proving and earning it every single day.”

Mendoza’s family had nothing but positive things to say about his work ethic when speaking to Local 10 News.

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“Oh this is so very exciting. We’re so proud of him,” said Enrique Espino, Mendoza’s great-uncle. “He followed the mother’s advice and the father’s restrictions and conditions — everyone is excited about him.”

Police have blocked off a portion of the street for a private party that soon will be filled with celebration.

Plenty of friends and neighbors sharing pride in Mendoza’s hard work and dedication.

“They’re a really nice family. We’re all just thrilled they’re happy,” said Michael Brown, Mendoza’s neighbor.

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