Former Indiana University quarterback Fernando Mendoza has agreed to a four‑year, $57.27 million contract with the Las Vegas Raiders, the team announced on Tuesday.
A New Chapter in the Silver and Black
The agreement includes a $38.11 million signing bonus and guarantees the full value of the deal, marking one of the largest rookie contracts of the offseason.
Mendoza’s ascent to the NFL follows a record‑setting college career in which he guided the Hoosiers to an undefeated 16‑0 season and a national championship in 2025. He completed 273 of 379 passes for 3,535 yards, 41 touchdowns and only six interceptions, posting a 72.0 % completion rate that topped the FBS.
The Raiders selected him with the first overall pick in April’s draft, a decision that underscores the team’s intent to build around the young quarterback. He will don the number 15 jersey, a symbol that has become synonymous with his brand in college football.
Mendoza will enter training camp alongside veterans Kirk Cousins and Aidan O’Connell, both of whom are also vying for the starting role. The competition is expected to be fierce, but the coaching staff has praised Mendoza’s poise and work ethic.
He is one of five former Hoosiers at the camp, including running back Roman Hemby, wide receiver E.J. Williams, defensive back Jonathan Brady and tight end Ian Thomas, all hoping to make the roster.
Beyond the field, Mendoza’s accolades include the Heisman Trophy, the Associated Press Player of the Year, and multiple conference honors, cementing his status as one of the most decorated players in Indiana history.