Fernando Mendoza’s No. 1 pick hype faces backlash as Jason Brown delivers a blunt reality check, questioning whether the Indiana Hoosiers football star is truly a generational talent despite his dominant season.

The 2026 NFL Draft feels unusually one-sided. Unlike most years, where the No. 1 pick fuels debate, many believe Fernando Mendoza has already locked up the top spot.

There’s no denying that the Indiana Hoosiers football quarterback has delivered an outstanding season. His production, consistency, and leadership have made him the face of this draft class. Heisman winner’s dominance has triggered an unusual response, with many questioning rather than praising his success.

Some analysts argue that Mendoza’s rise is a result of weaker competition, suggesting that he stands out because no one else has truly matched his level this year. Supporters point to his resume—especially his Heisman win—as clear proof of his credibility.

Amid this divide, Jason Brown has added fuel to the fire with a brutally honest take. Fernando’s reaction reflects a growing sentiment among critics—that being the clear No. 1 doesn’t automatically make Fernando Mendoza a generational talent.

Coach JB said, “Everyone in this class is garbage but this Cry baby ass Fernando is shit I watched Cal Film when everything around him was average to below and he was uncomfortable which is what he will be in the league all over you can get TY cheaper and gain assets as the Raiders need tremendously.”

This clash of opinions is what makes the 2026 draft storyline so compelling. It’s not just about who goes first, it’s about whether Mendoza is truly elite, or simply the best in a class that hasn’t pushed him enough.

Fernando Mendoza’s No.1 Draft Buzz Grows But Respect Isn’t Guaranteed Yet

There’s no denying that the 2026 NFL Draft lacks the depth of competition seen in previous years. But one fact stands out—Fernando Mendoza is not just a projected No. 1 pick; he is also a Heisman Trophy winner, and that stage demands far more than talent.
Fernando Mendoza. Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Playing for the Indiana Hoosiers football, Mendoza didn’t earn that recognition in a vacuum. Voters award the Heisman based on performance and consistency throughout a tough season landscape. If he does go No. 1, it will be because of what he has put on tape—not because the class is weak.

Yet, despite that resume, the respect hasn’t been fully earned. There’s a growing perception that Mendoza has had things “handed to him,” a narrative that overlooks the work and performance required to reach this level. It’s a flawed assumption—but one that continues to shape public opinion.

Ultimately, that perception will only change one way. Becoming the No. 1 pick will answer part of the question. But proving why he deserves it will have to happen at the NFL level. Until then, Mendoza remains both the most obvious choice—and the most debated one.

Fearne Cotton has broken her silence on split from husband Jesse Wood in her first TV interview since the breakup.

Joining Lorraine Kelly on Monday’s episode of the ITV show, the TV presenter, 43, also gave an health update after having two tumours removed from jaw.

Fearne announced her split from Jesse, the son of Rolling Stones bass guitarist Ronnie Wood, in December after 10 years of marriage.

She has since made swipes at Jesse and moved on with TV director Elliot Hegarty, with the pair having been seen kissing during a recent night out.

Fearne has had a difficult few months after undergoing surgery to remove two benign tumours from her jawline, just days before her split with Jesse emerged.

She told host Lorraine: ‘It’s all very amicable and kids are doing great. I am in a very good place.’place.’

Fearne Cotton has broken her silence on split from husband Jesse Wood in her first TV interview since the breakup

Fearne announced her split from Jesse, the son of Rolling Stones bass guitarist Ronnie Wood , in December after 10 years of marriage (both pictured in February 2024)

Discussing her recent surgery, she added: ‘I feel very grateful to have completely recovered.

‘I feel really good. I have a lot of people reaching out who have had the same thing.’

Davina McCall, 56, announced in November she’d been diagnosed with a colloid cyst, a rare type of benign brain tumour, and has supported Fearne.

She continued: ‘Everyone needs a Davina. She’s been amazing, weird that we had the same health thing going on at the same time. She’s so calming and we speak every day. She is just the best

It comes after Fearne has seemingly made another thinly-veiled dig at her ex-husband as she gushed that she is the happiest she’s ever been in a positive update.

Speaking to Scott Mills on his BBC Radio 2 breakfast show, Fearne gushed that she is ‘really happy’ and is ‘springing out of bed in the morning ready for life’.

Scott, who has known Fearne for 25 years, said he has never seen her ‘more positive or happier’, prompting Fearne to agree and reply: ‘Yeah I feel great!’

She told how her health scare has changed her outlook and said she has been seeking comfort from Davina.

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Joining Lorraine Kelly on Monday’s episode of the ITV show, the TV presenter, 43, also gave an health update after having two tumours removed from jaw