Fernando Mendoza Throws 56 Passes at Indiana Pro Day for All 32 NFL Teams

Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza completed a 56-pass workout at the John Mellencamp Pavilion, weighing in at 236 pounds ahead of the NFL draft.

Fernando Mendoza threw approximately 56 passes during his Wednesday workout at the John Mellencamp Pavilion, performing in front of scouts representing all 32 NFL teams. The Indiana quarterback, an expected No. 1 overall pick, utilized the session to showcase short, medium, and deep-range accuracy to the left, right, and over the middle. This Fernando Mendoza pro day appearance followed a 2024 season where he completed 72% of his throws for 3,535 yards, recording 41 touchdowns against just six interceptions. The 6-foot-5 signal-caller also displayed his mobility by throwing on the run, though he missed one deep ball to a diving Elijah Sarratt by roughly half a yard.

Measuring in at 236 pounds, the 22-year-old was 11 pounds heavier than his previous listed playing weight. This physical transformation occurred after he opted to skip the physical workout portion of February's NFL scouting combine, choosing instead to participate only in the throwing session in Bloomington. The Boston-born athlete, who previously played as a Florida prep star and Cal graduate, worked out under bright television lights while head coach Curt Cignetti observed. The event drew more than 100 credentialed media members and nearly two dozen college teammates who participated in the 40-yard dash.

Statistical Dominance and Championship Pedigree

Mendoza’s draft stock is bolstered by a historic 2025 campaign in which he led the Hoosiers to their first outright Big Ten title since 1945. During that run, he secured consecutive victories over Ohio State, Alabama, Oregon, and Miami. His season culminated in the school's first national football title, a game highlighted by his twisting scoring run late in the fourth quarter. These performances caught the attention of Raiders minority owner Tom Brady, who watched the national championship game in Miami alongside majority owner Mark Davis and general manager John Spytek.

The Heisman Trophy winner has already held two formal meetings with the Las Vegas Raiders, including an interview at the combine and a subsequent video conference. A third meeting is scheduled before the NFL draft begins on April 23. Mendoza, a lifelong fan of Brady, noted that he designed his pro day script to be longer than typical quarterback workouts to ensure his former teammates could showcase their route-running abilities in front of professional talent evaluators.

Technical Adjustments for the Professional Level

Despite his collegiate success, the quarterback identified specific areas for growth as he transitions to the NFL. He noted that the professional game requires more snaps taken from under center compared to his college system. Additionally, Mendoza highlighted the condensed nature of NFL hash marks and the increased speed of the game as primary hurdles. He expressed a commitment to becoming a finished product, stating his current efforts are focused on being the best possible quarterback for the upcoming season.

During the Wednesday session, Mendoza warmed up with his college roommate before beginning the scripted throwing portion of the afternoon. While he was not perfect—evidenced by several balls hitting the turf—his frame and arm strength appeared to satisfy the decision-makers from Las Vegas. The quarterback mentioned that the timing of the routes run during the pro day was specifically designed to mirror the speed and requirements of NFL playbooks.

Emotional Conclusion to Bloomington Tenure

The workout concluded with a symbolic sprint to the end zone by the participating players, followed by a group hug among the ex-Hoosiers. Mendoza described the moment as one of gratitude, acknowledging the unlikelihood of the roster playing together again. He emphasized the importance of the platform provided by the pro day, which allowed dozens of family members and friends to witness the final collegiate performance of the championship-winning squad.

As the April 23 draft clock approaches, Mendoza remains the projected top selection. His transition from a Cal graduate to a Heisman winner at Indiana has positioned him as the centerpiece of the Raiders' potential future. With his weight increased to 236 pounds to better withstand professional pass rushers, the quarterback has completed all physical benchmarks required before the draft. He now awaits the final meeting with Las Vegas to solidify his status as the likely successor to the legacy of his idol, Tom Brady.