The Breakdown 20

• Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, fresh off a historic Heisman Trophy-winning season and a perfect run to the national championship, has officially declared for the 2026 NFL Draft, marking the end of his college career.
• With his exceptional skills on display, Mendoza is widely predicted to be the No. 1 overall pick, making him a prime target for the rebuilding Las Vegas Raiders.
• The buzz surrounding his draft decision has ignited excitement among Raiders fans, who are eager to see if he’ll join the franchise.
• Mendoza's declaration, made through social media, underscores the contemporary landscape of athlete communication and the haste for public anticipation.
• NFL veteran Derek Carr has weighed in on the discussions around Mendoza, emphasizing the team's direction and the potential impact of selecting the star quarterback.
• Adding to the narrative, a commemorative bobblehead of Mendoza celebrating a memorable college moment has been released, further enhancing his rising star status as he prepares for the NFL.