INDIANAPOLIS, Feb. 27 (UPI) -- Fernando Mendoza finished college draped in perfection, but the top NFL Draft prospect said failing and a "terrible" self-evaluation enabled his rise.
Mendoza spoke about his ascension to the likely No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft class during his scouting combine news conference Friday in Indianapolis. The former Indiana quarterback called the session the "most important job interview of my life."
"Right now, I'm just trying to do everything to hopefully get employed on April 23," Mendoza said, referencing the first day of the 2026 NFL Draft.
The 22-year-old wasn't always as locked in as a precious gem behind polycarbonate when it comes to his outlook of being a top pick. He looks at his journey, from an under-recruited high schooler and college transfer to a Heisman winning potential NFL franchise cornerstone, as priceless.
Like a diamond, pressure and heat molded Mendoza. He credits teammates, coaches and those who believed in him as his miner and says self-discipline and presence were vital for growth.
