Evaluating prospects for the NFL Draft often involves unpredictable questioning. Coaches and front office staff sometimes toss unusual inquiries at players to gauge their responses to unexpected situations.
For Fernando Mendoza, one of the standout moments from draft interviews didn’t revolve around a question but rather a peculiar suggestion—to be put in handcuffs. Yes, really.
“I don’t know if I should share this,” a playful Mendoza responded to CBS Sports’ Aditi Kinkhabwala regarding the strangest moment he experienced. “It was something like, ‘Hey, maybe you should get arrested.’”
Mendoza explained that a certain team proposed this in an effort to diminish his draft stock, hoping he would fall from the coveted No. 1 overall pick, which he is widely anticipated to become. He also humorously clarified that this suggestion did not come from any team where he had a formal interview.
“I hope I don’t end up in handcuffs,” he chuckled.
This lighthearted comment was aimed at a team that likely wished it had the chance to select Mendoza. Given that this year’s draft class doesn’t feature premium quarterback talent and available free agents or trade options are not clear-cut, Mendoza’s value has skyrocketed.
As the presumed No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft, Mendoza is expected to land with the Las Vegas Raiders. He shared enthusiastic feedback after a formal interview with the team.
“The interview went exceptionally well,” Mendoza stated, according to NFL.com. “The coaching staff was present, and we analyzed some of my past performances and worked on specific plays. It felt like a productive session. I know they hold the No. 1 pick, but drafts can be unpredictable. I’m looking forward to the possibilities, and whoever picks me will get my full commitment.”
He expressed excitement about the potential of being selected anywhere, from the No. 1 pick to the 199th pick, subtly referencing his potential future boss, Tom Brady, who was famously the 199th pick in the 2000 NFL Draft by the New England Patriots.
Fernando Mendoza shares what he hopes to learn from Tom Brady if he’s chosen No. 1 by the Raiders
Coming off a landmark 2025 season, Mendoza led the Hoosiers to an undefeated 16-0 record, clinched the Heisman Trophy, and celebrated a victory over Miami in the CFP National Championship. His stats are impressive: he completed 72% of his passes for 3,535 yards, tossed 41 touchdowns with only six interceptions, and contributed 276 rushing yards and seven touchdowns.
