Fernando Mendoza Turns Down Invitation To White House For Good Reason

When the Indiana Hoosiers head over to the White House later this month, don't expect to see star quarterback Fernando Mendoza there.

The Herald-Times' Michael Niziolek reported on Friday that Indiana's football team will take a trip to the White House on May 11 to celebrate their national championship victory over Miami.

While at the Las Vegas Raiders' facility on Saturday afternoon, Mendoza was asked if he'll visit the president of the United States. The Heisman Trophy winner explained why it's highly unlikely he'll be in attendance for Indiana's celebration.

"I believe May 11th is the first day of OTAs," Mendoza said. "... If it is, I'm at the bottom of the totem pole. I gotta prove myself. I can't miss practice. As a rookie, I don't think that's a good look. I'm trying to best serve my teammates, and I don't know if that'd be accomplishing that goal."

Fans support Mendoza's decision.

"He's definitely ready for the media," one fan commented. "He stayed in the pocket and delivered a well-worded and timed response."

"Love to hear this Fernando. Definitely dedicated to the team," a Raiders fan wrote on X.

"As an IU fan that's exactly what I expected him to say," one person said. "He gives everything for his team and that team is now the Raiders."

"Good for him... he has a lot of goodwill coming his way," another person said. "Stay non-political, be a non-controversial teammate."

Mendoza isn't a lock to start Week 1 for the Raiders, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

"Do not expect Mendoza to play early. The most likely scenario for the Raiders [is] Kirk Cousins is their starting quarterback to begin this season," Rapoport said. "Klint Kubiak believes that is the way to have long-term success, so likely Cousins early and hopefully throughout the season."

Make no mistake though, Mendoza has what it takes to quickly win over the locker room in Las Vegas.

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This story was originally published May 2, 2026 at 2:57 PM.