As the NFL Combine kicks off at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana football is making waves with a record-breaking nine players attending this year. Among them are standout talents like Fernando Mendoza, Elijah Sarratt, Omar Cooper Jr., and D'Angelo Ponds, all eager to showcase their skills ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.
The full roster of Hoosiers attending includes Mendoza, Sarratt, Cooper, Ponds, Aiden Fisher, Pat Coogan, Roman Hemby, Riley Nowakowski, and Louis Moore. Notably, Mendoza will hold off on throwing drills at the combine, saving his arm for Indiana's Pro Day on April 1st.
This Pro Day will be a crucial platform for players like Mikail Kamara, Kaelon Black, and Devan Boykin, who didn't receive combine invites. Mendoza is expected to participate fully, drawing the attention of NFL scouts and executives.
Now, let’s dive into some of the key prospects:
Fernando Mendoza, Quarterback
Projected as a first-round pick, Mendoza is the consensus favorite to be the No. 1 overall selection, potentially making history as Indiana's first top pick. The reigning Heisman Trophy winner led the Hoosiers to an undefeated National Championship, showcasing a blend of size, skill, and leadership that has NFL teams buzzing. While he won’t throw at the combine, his Pro Day performance will be pivotal as the Las Vegas Raiders eye him for their top pick.
Omar Cooper Jr., Wide Receiver
Cooper is quickly climbing draft boards, projected in the second round but with the potential to sneak into the first. His ability to play both outside and in the slot, coupled with his knack for gaining yards after the catch, makes him a hot commodity. Cooper's agility and sure hands have been hallmarks of his career, and his pre-draft evaluations will be key in determining if he can break into the first round, following in the footsteps of Thomas Lewis, the last IU receiver to do so in 1994.
As the combine unfolds, these Hoosiers are poised to leave a lasting impression, each with a unique skill set that could soon shine on the NFL stage. Whether it’s Mendoza’s poised leadership or Cooper’s dynamic playmaking, Indiana’s prospects are ready to make their mark.