Draft Insider: Indiana Signal-Caller Fernando Mendoza Takes Center Stage

Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza has drawn the attention of NFL scouts, as he enters the toughest matchup of his career against a stymie Illinois defense. Plus, 60+ prospects on the NFL radar.

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2026 DRAFT RANKINGS: QB || RB || WR || TE || OT || OG || C || DT || ER || LB || CB || S

[BIG BOARD]: Top 30 Draft-Eligible Prospects At Each Position On Offense Updated.

DRAFT INSIDER: QB MENDOZA TAKES CENTER STAGE

This week, All Access Football Draft Insider shines the spotlight on the Big Ten clash between the No.19 Indiana Hoosiers (3-0) at No.9 Illinois Illini (3-0), featuring two programs on the rise. One prospect who has captivated the attention of NFL scouts is Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza. The big-bodied, cannon-armed signal-caller has been impressive with his combination of accuracy, quick decision-making and downfield prowess, which has created buzz as a potential first round selection. Indiana draws Illinois this week in a nationally televised game between two ranked opponents. This is sure to be the biggest test thus far for Mendoza, as the Illini plan to employ their blitz-heavy defense at the talented quarterback. This game has more than 30 players on the NFL radar and we have highlighted them all below, with verified measurements, projections and scouting reports on key players.

The Big 12 also headlines Week 4 of NCAA action with another marquee matchup between two ranked opponents in No.17 Texas Tech (3-0) at No.16 Utah (3-0). One of the top-rated offensive tackle prospects for the 2026 NFL Draft is Utes long-limbed Spencer Fano. A combination of size, athleticism and power, Fano is widely viewed as a first round pick. His counterpart Caleb Lomu is also thought of very highly amongst the scouting community, forming arguably the top offensive line in college football. A key matchup worth watching is to see how Indiana pass-rusher Mikail Kamara fares against the top competition. With 22.5 career sacks, Kamara has been one of the more productive edge players in the nation, however concerns about his length could hinder his draft stock. A big game against Utah could help sway talent evaluators into believing more in his next level success. Once again, we have ranked over 30 players in this game below, complete with measurements, projections and scouting reports.

Another game we’ll be monitoring this weekend includes No.22 Auburn (3-0) at No.11 Oklahoma (3-0). Tigers signal-caller Jackson Arnold faces his old team, where he was unable to live up to expectations as a five-star recruit. However, Arnold has showcased his dual-threat ability this season, guiding Auburn to an undefeated mark thus far. This is sure to be an exciting game, as current Sooners quarterback John Mateer has also drawn rave reviews as one of the biggest risers early on in the college football season.

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