Being the No. 1 pick certainly has its perks, but Fernando Mendoza is finding out it comes with its own set of challenges. The Indiana quarterback chose not to throw at the NFL Combine this week, and the football community had plenty to say about it. Coach Breeze didn’t hold back on social media, stating, “If you’re not going to participate fully in the combine, you should step aside for someone who might truly benefit from the opportunity.”
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that Mendoza will skip the quarterback throwing session at Lucas Oil Stadium, opting instead to showcase his skills at Indiana’s Pro Day on April 1 in Bloomington. Mendoza, who led the Hoosiers to a perfect 16-0 season and a national championship, is fresh off a year where he collected the Heisman, Maxwell, Walter Camp, and Manning awards. With Las Vegas holding the No. 1 draft pick, all eyes are on him as the draft approaches in April.
In an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show during Super Bowl week, Mendoza explained his decision: “At the combine, you’re throwing to different receivers. It’s a whole different thing.
I want to make sure I give my guys the best chance.” Considering Indiana’s grueling season, which started on July 30 and stretched over 17 games, his reasoning makes sense.
It’s a workload akin to the NFL, and Mendoza is prioritizing familiarity and precision.
Coach Breeze’s perspective also holds weight. The NFL Combine isn’t just for top prospects; it’s a crucial platform for fringe players who are one standout performance away from making a roster. Breeze’s argument is straightforward: if you’re not going to utilize the opportunity fully, let someone else have it.
Mendoza will be present on Saturday to support his Indiana teammates Elijah Sarratt, Omar Cooper Jr., and Roman Hemby as they perform drills for scouts. However, he’ll save his arm for Pro Day in Bloomington, where he’ll throw on his terms, with his receivers. Whether this decision will silence critics or fuel further debate remains to be seen.