The Fernando Mendoza hype train isn’t slowing down anytime soon - and it’s not just fans or media fueling it. On Friday, Mendoza was named the winner of the prestigious Manning Award, given annually to the top quarterback in college football.
That kind of recognition doesn’t just speak to stats; it speaks to leadership, poise, and performance when it matters most. And if that wasn’t enough to boost his stock, Mendoza also inked a new partnership with LinkedIn, signaling his growing profile both on and off the field.
But the real fireworks may be coming in April.
According to NFL Network draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah, the New York Jets are preparing to make a serious push for the No. 1 overall pick - with Mendoza clearly in their sights. Speaking on The Rich Eisen Show on Friday, Jeremiah didn’t mince words: “The Jets will 100 percent try to move up.” That’s not a guarantee they’ll get there, but it’s a strong indication that Mendoza is the quarterback they believe can change the trajectory of the franchise.
And it’s not hard to see why. Mendoza checks every box scouts look for - size (he’s 6'5"), toughness, and, most importantly, the ability to deliver in high-pressure situations.
Jeremiah highlighted Mendoza’s composure on critical third downs and red zone possessions, pointing to his accuracy and decision-making under fire. “Somebody who's been big in big moments,” Jeremiah said.
That’s the kind of quarterback NFL teams dream about building around.
Now, let’s talk logistics - because pulling off a move to No. 1 overall isn’t just about desire, it’s about firepower. And the Jets have plenty.
New York currently holds five first-round picks and three second-rounders across the 2026 and 2027 drafts. That includes a 2027 first-rounder and a 2026 second-rounder acquired from Dallas in a previous deal.
They also own the No. 2 and No. 16 picks in this year’s draft, giving them the kind of flexibility most front offices can only envy. If there’s a team built to make a blockbuster move, it’s the Jets.
But here’s the catch: the Las Vegas Raiders hold the No. 1 pick, and all signs point to them being all-in on Mendoza themselves.
Jeremiah made it clear - the Raiders aren’t just sitting on the top pick, they’re sitting on a quarterback prospect who checks every box. “All the measurables, intangibles,” he said.
“I don’t see the Raiders listening to any of those offers.” That’s a bold statement, and it underscores just how high Mendoza’s stock has risen.
If Las Vegas believes they’ve found their franchise quarterback, it’s going to take a massive offer - and maybe even then, it won’t be enough.
Still, don’t expect the Jets to sit back and wait. This front office has shown it’s not afraid to be aggressive when it comes to chasing elite talent. The question now is whether that aggression will be enough to pry the top pick away from a team that may already be envisioning Mendoza in silver and black.
One thing’s for sure: the road to the No. 1 pick just got a lot more interesting - and all eyes are on New York.