Indiana's Fernando Mendoza Leads the Heisman Race

As the football world sets its eyes on New York City for the Heisman Trophy ceremonies, Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza stands out as the heavy favorite. However, the question remains: is he the best NFL prospect among the finalists? Recent trends indicate a strong correlation between Heisman winners and top NFL draft picks, with seven of the last eight Heisman recipients selected as top two picks in their respective draft classes. Historically, though, many winners struggled to make a significant impact in the professional ranks.

The Shifting Landscape of Heisman Winners

In the past, names like Troy Smith, Jason White, Eric Crouch, and Chris Weinke were celebrated college players, yet they didn't excel at the NFL level, leading to skepticism about Heisman winners as sure-shot NFL prospects. The dynamic has shifted in recent years, with this year’s finalists showing promising potential for early draft selections.

Heisman Rankings and NFL Potential

Among the 2023 Heisman finalists, forecasts suggest that all four could be first-round picks, but Mendoza isn't the only one to watch. Here's a closer look at other candidates who, despite not reaching the Heisman stage, have promising futures in the NFL:

• 6. QB Haynes King, Georgia Tech: A tough leader, King needs to improve his passing to solidify his NFL prospect status.
• 5. QB Gunner Stockton, Georgia: While Stockton may be talked about for the 2027 draft, he faces challenges with arm strength and field vision.
• 4. QB Trinidad Chambliss, Ole Miss: A compelling story, Chambliss has talents but faces physical limitations that may affect his draft position.
• 3. LB Jacob Rodriguez, Texas Tech: Known for his intelligence and defensive prowess, Rodriguez is likely to impress as an NFL prospect.
• 2. S Caleb Downs, Ohio State: Downs is recognized as a top prospect due to his significant impact in college football.
• 1. WR Jeremiah Smith, Ohio State: Smith is making a name for himself and could rise to even greater heights ahead of the draft.

Fernando Mendoza's Impressive Season

Mendoza has proven resilient under pressure, showcasing his abilities in crucial moments, especially in challenging games like the Big Ten Championship against Ohio State. His intelligence, strong arm, and ability to read defenses set him apart as a top NFL prospect. However, while he is viewed as the top quarterback for the 2026 draft, comparisons to past Heisman winners show Mendoza's journey may not be straightforward.

Other Heisman Candidates with NFL Upside

Jeremiyah Love of Notre Dame stands out as another potential candidate making waves in the NFL conversation. As a dynamic running back, Love’s versatility and top-tier performance this season place him among the top-rated talents, regardless of position.

Conclusion

While Fernando Mendoza is the favorite for the Heisman, the path from college football stardom to NFL success remains fraught with challenges. As the Heisman festivities draw near, eyes will be watching to see how these players transition into their professional careers and what the future holds for them in the NFL.