Projected No. 1 pick Fernando Mendoza just made a decision that has nothing to do with football. His choice to skip the NFL Draft has split the sports world, but the reason hits close to home.

On Tuesday this week, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported on X that Fernando has made the surprising decision to skip attending Round 1 of the 2026 NFL Draft, which is set for 8 p.m. on April 23. Mendoza has reportedly chosen to prioritize being with his family.

“Projected No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza has informed the NFL that he is not planning to attend the NFL Draft in Pittsburgh this month, per sources. Mendoza wants to share the draft experience with his family in Miami,” Schefter wrote.

In recent years, several prospects have declined green room invitations for various reasons. But this reasoning behind the absence goes beyond a growing trend of skipping draft night.

While most prospects will be in Pittsburgh for the big night, Mendoza is set to stay back in Miami to share the moment with family, a decision shaped in part by his mother’s battle with Multiple Sclerosis.

His mother, who has been battling multiple sclerosis for nearly two decades, is unable to travel.

“It's that unwavering optimism that she gives me that really helps me go through my day,” Mendoza said about his mom via PEOPLE, “And she's so special to me. And to see her is such an inspiration to me. I'm so lucky to have someone like that in my life.”

Throughout Fernando Mendoza’s rise at Indiana, including his 2025 Heisman-winning campaign, his mother, Elsa, watched from afar.

As she revealed in her Players’ Tribune letter, worsening symptoms during the 2020 COVID period meant stadium visits were no longer possible, forcing the family to adapt.

Over nearly two decades since her diagnosis, that reality reshaped their routines, with his father Alberto ensuring every milestone was brought home, turning personal victories into shared moments.

How could he be in Pittsburgh while his "inspiration" remains back home in Miami? As a result, many fans who understood his decision rallied behind him.

Fernando Mendoza’s Fans Support Him Amid Scrutiny

The Cleveland Browns community penned an article highlighting fans who opposed Fernando Mendoza’s decision. There were also those who couldn’t bear to hear the criticism.

“Choosing his family, and especially his mother, who has a serious disease, over a “I'm A Celebrity, Look At ME” event seems like a sign of excellent CHARACTER. Something a LOT of others in pro sports are lacking,” one fan commented.

Another praised his humility and called the criticism forced.

“Dude just became my favorite QB. He isn't about the hype or the BS, just wants to play ball and be with his family.  Personally, I think the outrage is mostly made up as most people understand his position,” the comment read.

One fan noted that Mendoza could be selected by the Las Vegas Raiders with the 1st overall pick, adding that he would likely treat them like family as well.

“i can't understand how anyone would be upset about this, except of course the league and the media.  Wanting to stay home with family, especially his mother with MS, for the biggest night of his life is honorable," a comment began.

It was clear that many fans considered the character that this showed behind who the player was.

"Seeing how he is a family man, imagine how he treats his teammates which become essentially family.  I think the raiders will have their QB of the future....finally!  Wish him all the success in the league,” the comment concluded.

Many other fans defended him, underscoring the respect and honor he has already earned before even beginning his NFL career. Read more at Quarter Back Central!

Written by

Monika Khatai

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote