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Fernando Mendoza wins Best Men's College Athlete ESPY award

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 16, 2026, 2:41 AM

Last updated Jul 16, 2026

Fernando Mendoza wins Best Men's College Athlete ESPY award

Summary

Fernando Mendoza, now a quarterback for the Las Vegas Raiders, earned the Best Men's College Athlete award at the ESPYs on July 15, 2026. Previously, Mendoza led the Indiana Hoosiers to a national championship with a perfect 16-0 record, winning the Heisman Trophy in his only college season. In his acceptance speech, he expressed gratitude to his coaches, family, fans, and especially his teammates. Mendoza, who was the No. 1 pick in the 2026 draft, continues to receive recognition following his standout college career.

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By the Numbers

•Mendoza led Indiana Hoosiers to a national championship in his final college season.
•He won the Heisman Trophy and was the first overall pick in the 2026 draft.
•He emphasized teamwork in his acceptance speech during the ESPY awards.
•Mendoza now plays for the Las Vegas Raiders after a challenging previous season for the team.

Latest Updates

2:41 AMYahoo Sports — ‘Belongs to So Many People’ — Raiders QB Fernando Mendoza Drops Classy Response After Winning Best College Athlete ESPY

What they're saying

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Fernando Mendoza led the Indiana Hoosiers to an unlikely national championship in the previous college football season. In his lone season with the team, Indiana had a perfect 16-0 record, while the quarterback won the Heisman Trophy and became the No.
— Yahoo Sports

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