A veteran offensive coach recently shook up the NFL draft conversation. He told Mike Sando of The Athletic that Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza is not a sure thing. The coach has studied every quarterback in the upcoming class. “I don’t think he’s surefire at all,” the coach said via Mike Sando of The Athletic. This news comes as many experts expect Mendoza to be a top pick.
The same coach likes Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson much more. He stated, “I like the Alabama guy (Ty Simpson) better.” This take is a massive vibe shift for draft watchers who focus on Mendoza. Mendoza won the Heisman Trophy and led Indiana to a 15-0 record and a national title in 2025. He threw for 32 touchdowns and only 4 interceptions during that historic run.
Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza
Feb 28, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza (QB11) greets Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson (QB17) during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Ty Simpson brings a different style to the table. He is 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighs 215 pounds. Simpson played in 15 games for Alabama before entering the 2026 draft. He reportedly turned down $6.5 million in NIL money to stay in the draft process. Some scouts believe his physical tools give him a higher ceiling than Mendoza.
The Las Vegas Raiders currently hold the number 1 overall pick. Many mock drafts still have them taking Mendoza to lead their offense. However, anonymous polls show that not everyone in the NFL agrees. One executive noted that Mendoza has a “very high floor” but maybe not the best arm.
The 2026 NFL Draftwill begin on April 23 in Pittsburgh. Teams will have to decide if they want the proven winner from Indiana or the high-potential athlete from Alabama. This debate will likely continue until the first name is called on draft night.
Tom Brady scouts Fernando Mendoza
Tom Brady attended the College Football Playoff National Championship in January 2026. He is a part-owner of the Las Vegas Raiders. Hewatched the game from the sidelines at Hard Rock Stadium.
He was there to scout quarterback Fernando Mendoza. Mendoza played for the Indiana Hoosiers. He led his team to a perfect season. Indiana won the title against Miami.
Mendoza won the Heisman Trophy in 2025. Many experts think the Raiders will pick him first in the NFL Draft. Brady watched the young star closely during the game. “I love everything about his game,” Brady said.
The Raiders need a new quarterback. Brady used his experience to evaluate Mendoza’s skills on the big stage. Mendoza said it would be “fantastic” to have Brady as a mentor.