Fernando Mendoza is a smart, disciplined, and strong leader on the football field. Not only did the Heisman-winning quarterback lead the Indiana Hoosiers to its first national championship earlier this year, but his underdog story has all the makings of an inspirational Hollywood movie.
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Which is why we're a little perplexed that an NFL team would encourage the projected top pick in this year's draft to try to go to jail, even as a joke.
Fernando Mendoza Arrived at the NFL Combine
Mendoza recently appeared at the NFL Combine last month. It took place at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, a few hours away from Bloomington, Indiana, where Mendoza's alma mater is located. He did not take part in any of the drills. However, he joined the other QBs on the field during on-field testing
Of course, the star has plenty of teams falling over themselves to draft him. He threw for 3,535 yards and 41 touchdowns this past season. Another intriguing stat: Mendoza only threw six interceptions.
But as reported by the New York Post, the future NFL star said that one NFL team made an odd request.
"It was, 'Hey, maybe you should get arrested,' and I was a little confused, but then I was like, the slide... so you could slide in the draft," Mendoza shared.
He later added, "So, hopefully I don't get arrested."
Which Team Made the Suggestion?
Mendoza didn't share which team made the comment. He did say that it wasn't said during an actual interview. The NFL Draft takes place from April 23-25 in Pittsburgh. The Las Vegas Raiders, New York Jets, and Arizona Cardinals are scheduled to make the first three picks.
In addition to his underdog story, Mendoza just seems to be a nice guy with great parents. Several weeks ago, we reported on how his father never stood up when his son did well on the field.
Why? It is believed to be because his wife, Elsa, is in a wheelchair. She has had multiple sclerosis for almost two decades. Mendoza supposedly wanted to refrain from obstructing Elsa's view. Elsa has also said that her son was "the biggest, sweetest boy...a gentle giant" growing up.
Honestly, would anyone believe he would end up in jail on purpose?
