Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza is starting to establish himself as perhaps the top quarterback in the 2026 NFL Draft after another dazzling performance against the Michigan State Spartans.
The Pittsburgh Steelers, who will likely be in the market for a quarterback in the draft, could look to him as one of the many options. Before the season, Mendoza was on few radars, but has quickly made a name for himself.
Penn State’s Drew Allar was lost for the season, while other top guys like South Carolina’s LaNorris Sellers, LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier, Texas’ Arch Manning, and Clemson’s Cade Klubnik have fallen down the board after struggling.
The Steelers have watched Mendoza twice this season, just like they have with most of the quarterbacks as they scour the 2026 class. Yet, Mendoza has not come close to falling off just yet from his play.
The Cal transfer has fit in perfectly with the Hoosiers’ offense and led them to a statement 30-20 win in Autzen Stadium against Oregon earlier this season and fellow top prospect Dante Moore, who he arguably outperformed.
The 6-foot-5, 225 pound quarterback has completed 71 percent of passes while throwing for 1423 yards, 17 touchdowns, and just two interception this season while the Hoosiers remain unbeaten and on a trajectory to the College Football Playoffs.
Mendoza boasts a rocket arm and fluid decision-making, a pair of traits that have differentiated himself from the 2026 quarterbacks.
While the Steelers will continue to look everywhere at quarterbacks in the class, Mendoza still looks like he could be the most intriguing of the bunch at this point.
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