Fernando Mendoza shares his mentality ahead of the NFL Draft

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. (WISH) — IU football had its Pro Day on Wednesday. Indiana had 23 players work out, but the highlight was Heisman Trophy winning quarterback Fernando Mendoza.

Mendoza helped IU to a 16-0 record and a national championship victory.

“I feel like it went great,” Mendoza said. “We had nine eligible guys coming out for the draft which is a lot more than normal. I first wanted to make sure everybody can showcase their abilities in front of all 32 NFL teams, and really run routes that are applicable to the timing that we’re going to be running in the NFL.”

After leading Indiana to a perfect season, Mendoza is now widely considered to be the No. 1 pick in the NFL Draft.

“I wouldn’t really say that I have the mentality of trying to be the top pick,” Mendoza stated. “I’m just trying to be the best me possible, and in that aspect whatever team picks me you only need one team to believe in you. Whether you’re the first pick, whether you’re the last pick, whatever. I’m just trying to be the best quarterback I can be in September, rather than right now here in April.”

Playing at the next level requires new adjustments. Mendoza is well aware of that.

“It’s going to be a lot more under center, and that’s a big adjustment I need to get used to,” Mendoza said. “That and just the nature of the game. Not only that, the hashes are also more condensed and the speed o...