Indiana football is on the verge of making history, with the possibility of having two players selected in the first round of the NFL Draft for the first time ever. As we look ahead to next month, all eyes are on quarterback Fernando Mendoza and wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr., who are projected to go in the first round.
In ESPN's latest 2026 NFL mock draft by Field Yates, Mendoza is predicted to be the No. 1 overall pick by the Las Vegas Raiders. His Heisman-winning season showcased his exceptional accuracy, arm strength, and field vision, making him a standout choice.
The Raiders have been proactive in free agency, securing top talent like center Tyler Linderbaum to bolster their roster around Mendoza. However, one area for improvement is Mendoza's experience under center, a skill he utilized only 3% of the time last season, compared to the NFL's 34.9%.
While Mendoza skipped the drills at the NFL Combine, he participated in formal interviews, including with the Raiders' front office. Fans can expect to see him in action at Indiana's Pro Day on April 1.
Omar Cooper Jr., Mendoza's top target last season, has seen his draft stock soar. After an impressive NFL Combine performance, including a 4.42-second 40-yard dash and a 37-inch vertical, Cooper has moved into first-round consideration. If selected, he would be IU's first first-round wide receiver since Thomas Lewis in 1994.
The Philadelphia Eagles, who are projected to pick Cooper at No. 23, could benefit from his skills, especially if they decide to make changes with A.J. Brown post-June 1 for salary cap reasons. Cooper is a dynamic player in open space, averaging 7.3 yards after the catch, and his blocking prowess would be a boon for running back Saquon Barkley.
The NFL Draft, scheduled from April 23 to 25 in Pittsburgh, promises to be a thrilling event. Indiana's Pro Day on April 1 will be a key showcase, drawing significant attention from scouts and front-office personnel eager to see the Hoosiers' talent up close.
Expected participants at the Pro Day include:
- OL Kahlil Benson
- RB Kaelon Black
- S Devan Boykin
- WR Jonathan Brady
- C Pat Coogan
- WR Omar Cooper Jr.
- DL Stephen Daley
- LB Aiden Fisher
- K Brendan Franke
- RB Roman Hemby
- DL Mikail Kamara
- LS Mark Langston
- P Mitch McCarthy
- QB Fernando Mendoza
- S Louis Moore
- TE Riley Nowakowski
- CB D'Angelo Ponds
- DL Dominque Ratcliff
- WR Elijah Sarratt
- TE Holden Staes
- RB Solomon Vanhorse
- WR E.J.
Williams Jr.
- DL Kellan Wyatt
As the draft approaches, Indiana fans have plenty to be excited about, with their players poised to make a significant impact on the NFL stage.