Mendoza's top targets at Indiana later took the stage. Elijah Sarratt and Omar Cooper Jr. are regarded as exceptional receivers in their own right within this draft class. Mendoza connected with the duo for 1,767 yards and 28 touchdowns in 2025, and both were Second-Team All-Big Ten selections.
During their podium interviews, they sang the praises of their college quarterback, sharing what they believe he can add to a NFL roster.
"Whoever drafts Fernado Mendoza is getting a great leader," Cooper said. "A great down to earth guy, someone who loves football as well and he's going to do whatever it takes to help his team win. And he showcased that this year. He's going to put his body on the line just because of how much he loves football and then loves his teammates."
"They're going to expect a dog, first of all," Sarratt said of expectations for Mendoza. "No matter what happens to him, no matter how much he gets hit, he's going to continue to get up and he's a great guy. As good of a football player he is, he's a better guy. ... We already know what he can do on a football field, he can make every single throw. But to see him deal with all that and still be the guy who he is, it's just a testament to who he is and how he was raised."
As for Mendoza, the feeling is mutual toward Cooper and Sarratt, who helped wrapped a bow on a season that seemed gifted from the heavens.
"Those are two guys that made this year special," Mendoza said. "They were a huge part to me committing to Indiana, having such an elite receiver core. I believe those guys deserve more love, Elijah and Omar are two of the best receivers in the nation. ...
"No matter what happens, hopefully I end up with them on an NFL team one day, but I'm very fortunate those are my brothers for life."