Fernando Mendoza's Aunt Could Be The Star Of The NFL Draft

Fernando Mendoza won't be in Pittsburgh for the 2026 NFL Draft, but there's no doubt the spotlight will be on him and his family.

The Las Vegas Raiders are expected to use the No. 1 overall pick on Mendoza, who is considered the best quarterback prospect in this class. The Heisman Trophy winner had an exceptional 2025 season at Indiana, completing 72% of his passes for 3,535 yards with 41 touchdowns and six interceptions.

"Think about the biggest games, the Big Ten Championship against Ohio State, the three playoff games. He had 10 touchdowns and only one pick with a 74% completion percentage. This kid is ready for the NFL because he benefitted from 35 starts," ESPN's Mel Kiper said in January. "He'll be 23 in October. Think about the Raiders and that division and the AFC in general with all those great quarterbacks. This is a heck of a place to start [for the Raiders]. The future with Mendoza would look bright for Raider Nation. I'd lock it in with pen, with exclamations points."

Even though Mendoza is the most notable prospect in the 2026 class, ESPN's Adam Schefter said the talented quarterback wants to share the draft experience at home with his family in Miami.

There's a good chance Mendoza's aunt will go viral during the first round of the NFL Draft. After all, ESPN's cameras were locked on her during the Peach Bowl between Indiana and Oregon.

"I actually thought it was the QB's sister," one fan wrote on social media.

"The cameraman loves Fernando Mendoza's aunt," a second fan commented.

"I also love Fernando Mendozas aunt," another fan added.

Fernando Mendoza's mother is his inspiration.

Mendoza's mother, Elsa, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis roughly 18 years ago. Although it may not have been easy, she attended every College Football Playoff game for the Hoosiers.

"Mami, this is your trophy as much as it is mine. You've always been my biggest fan. You're my light, you're my ‘why,' you're my biggest supporter," Mendoza said after winning the Heisman. "Your sacrifices, courage, love, those have been my first playbook and that playbook that I'm going to carry by my side for my entire life. You taught me that toughness doesn't need to be loud. It can be quiet and strong. It's choosing hope. It's believing in yourself when the world doesn't give you much reason to. Together, you and I are rewriting what people think is possible. I love you."

We're wishing the Mendoza family all the best as they get ready for the next chapter of their journey.

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This story was originally published April 23, 2026 at 7:42 AM.