Las Vegas Raiders QB Fernando Mendoza attended the ESPYs on Wednesday and won the Best Men’s College Athlete award. He receivedthe honor following his historic season with Indiana and after his selection as No. 1 overall in the NFL Draft.
The quarterback guided the Hoosiers to an undefeated season and led the program to its first national championship. He earned theHeisman Trophy by completing 273-of-379 passes for 3,535 yards and 41 touchdowns. Mendoza also produced on the ground, registering 90 rushing attempts for 276 yards and seven scores.
He is set to enter his rookie campaign with the Raiders and play behind Kirk Cousins. The team plans to ease him in and learn from the veteran before he eventually takes over as QB1.
Las Vegas quarterback Fernando M. (15) speaks during a news conference at the team’s Rookie Minicamp.
Fernando Mendoza Turns Heads With His Clapback During ESPYs
Mendoza showed on Wednesday that he also has a good sense of humor. He clapped back at ESPYs host Marcello Hernandez after the latter delivered a joke.
“You’ve taught us that Latinos can play quarterback at the highest level, and you taught us that sometimes, Latinos are whiter than white people,” Hernandez said.
The 22-year-old appeared to have a response ready and fired back immediately.
“That’s funny, Marcello,” Mendoza said. “Unlike you, I also proved that Latinos can be tall.”
Fans reacted in the comments section.
“Love this!” one fan wrote.
“💯 he has a point!! 6,5 here!” a reaction read.
“10/10 comeback from the boy,” one user said.
“Love this kid!” posted another.
“Against all odds 😂 That’s our boy!” another fan commented.
“Fernando been hanging with Tom !! 🤣” a comment read.
Hernandez, now a big-time stand-up comedian, is a cast member of “Saturday Night Live.” He joined the show in 2022 and has since built a strong following for his relatable Miami-Latino humor. The 28-year-old reportedly stands 5-foot-7.
Mendoza, on the other hand, stands 6-foot-5 and weighs 225 pounds. He used his build to his advantage during his collegiate career, with his height helping him see the field more clearly. The Boston native’s weight made it difficult for defenders to take him down. He’ll look to continue playing at a high level in the NFL and help lead the Raiders to more wins following a 3-14 season.
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