Fernando Mendoza Explains Why He's Skipping NFL Draft 2026 in Favor of His Own Event

Projected number 1 draft pick Fernando Mendoza is explaining why he’s not attending the 2026 NFL Draft in person this year, instead, opting to celebrate at a draft party with his family and friends.

This is not an unusual move – some future NFL stars do choose to have parties in their hometowns to invite a larger amount of people.

However, the 22-year-old Indiana Hoosiers star quarterback revealed his mom was a big part of the decision, as well as travel logistics.

Keep reading to find out more…

“Pittsburgh is a great opportunity and it’s a great venue, and I’m really excited to see… most of the guys walk across the stage on Thursday night. It’d be a dream for a lot of guys, however, my mom really wanted to do it at home, and so did my parents. It’s a lot easier for us, especially with the family situation, and I would have to hop on a plane the next morning anyways. And, for that travel, it would be a lot easier to stay at home,” Fernando explained on the Rich Eisen Show.

If you don’t know, Fernando‘s mom Elsa has been diagnosed with a condition called Multiple Sclerosis, a central nervous system disease.

He added, “I wanted to stay and make the memory with everybody who poured into my football journey. Mentors, coaches, family, friends — to be able to share that moment with all of them, is going to be the best memory that I can make, rather than limiting it to 10 or 12 people in Pittsburgh.”

“I still want to be the best league partner that I can become. Make sure that there’s however many cameras that ESPN wants there, whatever they need from me, I will do. However, I think it’s very important to start off this journey with everyone who’s gotten me to this point,” he thoughtfully explained.

Learn more about Fernando‘s mom Elsa, how long she’s had M.S., what he’s said about her, and much more.

Fernando is widely expected to be drafted number 1 by the Las Vegas Raiders. Stay tuned on Thursday (April 23) to find out.