Fernando Mendoza says he’s skipping the 2026 NFL Draft to watch from Miami with family because his mother has multiple sclerosis; he wants to share the moment with mentors, coaches, and friends rather than travel to Pittsburgh. He expects cameras to capture his reaction if he’s selected No. 1 by the Raiders and will host a large gathering in Miami. Mendoza, a Miami native who played at California and Indiana (where he won the 2025 Heisman and a national title), will still participate in draft coverage, possibly with Friday media appearances in Las Vegas. Like 👍 Subscribe 🔔 and stay informed. Visit NHENews.COM for more top headlines.