Georgia Tech and Colorado quarterbacks face NIL and NFL draft scrutiny

Georgia Tech quarterback Alberto Mendoza and Colorado quarterback Julian Lewis enter the 2026 college football season with significant focus on their NIL valuations and professional development. Lewis, who recorded 589 passing yards and four touchdowns during four appearances in 2025, holds a projected NIL value of $1 million with deals including Taco Bell and JLab Audio. Mendoza’s NIL valuation remains less defined, with projections varying significantly. While Lewis is eligible for the 2028 NFL draft as a projected fifth-round selection, Mendoza is currently tracked as an undrafted prospect for the 2027 draft. Colorado head coach Deion Sanders emphasized a strategy to reduce leadership pressure on the 18-year-old Lewis, focusing instead on execution within the team's offensive structure.

• 2:50 AMYahoo Sports — Georgia Tech’s Alberto Mendoza vs. Colorado’s Julian Lewis: NIL Money & NFL Draft Stock