Among all the new coach hirings that the Bucs have made this offseason, the addition of quarterbacks coach Chandler Whitmer feels like that one who is getting the most attention from it. That’s probably because Whitmer played a hand in developing the Heisman Trophy and likely number one draft pick this year, Fernando Mendoza.
Whitmer has NFL experience previously being on the Falcons’ coaching staff with now Bucs offensive coordinator Zac Robinson, but itw as his return to college for the 2025 season is thing that he can boast about the most. Mendoza transferred over from California to Indiana, going onto throw for 3,535 yards and 41 touchdowns with a completion percentage of 72.
Bucs Qb Coach Chandler Whitmer
Bucs QB Coach Chandler Whitmer – Photo by: IMAGN Images – Mark J. Rebilas
He also rushed for 276, scoring seven touchdowns. Along with that Mendoza won the Heisman and Indiana won the Big 10 championship and the National Championship in an undefeated season.
Fernando Mendoza Can’t Thank Chandler Whitmer Enough
Head coach Curt Cignetti deserves all the praise that he has gotten since taking the job at Indiana two seasons ago, but Whitmer also deserves some credit for coming on board and being Mendoza’s side through a career year. Mendoza heaped praise of Whitmer while speaking at the 2026 [NFL Combine.](http://