A Berkeley law student just dropped some major insight on Fernando Mendoza, the rising star projected to go No. 1 in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. Fresh off a national championship at Indiana, the reigning Heisman Trophy winner has captured the hearts of football fans around the country with his charisma, both on and off the field.
But Mendoza isn’t just putting on a show when in the spotlight.
According to the female law student, Mendoza wasn’t your typical “football kid taking the easy A” back in college. He didn’t sit quietly in the back of the room or coast through lectures.
Instead, Mendoza regularly shocked a famous Berkeley professor with how well-prepared he was in the classroom.
Viral Video Gives Inside Look At Mendoza’s Academic Habits
In a recent TikTok video, a former Cal student revealed that he was in the same contract law class as Mendoza before he transferred to Indiana.
“If you’re a football player at Cal, there is unfortunately a stereotype,” the law student explained. “So the professor would ask a law question and then ask one of the football players.”
“Fernando always knew his sh-t.”
🚨 BREAKING: Berkeley law student shares insane tea on Fernando Mendoza…
Apparently Mendoza used to regularly stump his own law professor in class.
Not sit quietly.
Not hide in the back.
Not “football kid taking the easy A.”He was out here challenging the room. pic.twitter.com/F9hvKhes5s
— Kenny King Jr (@KennyKing_Jr) February 2, 2026
The professor always teased football players, but Fernando never wavered from his likable demeanor, even in the classroom.
“Even though he was teased by the professor, he would just be smiling and would answer whatever he was asked,” she explained.
“Like he would shut up the professor because he was so impressed that he knew what was going on,” she continued.
Mendoza’s Character & Intelligence Help Him Stand Out
Football fans may already know him for his on-field talent and legendary post-game interviews, but stories like this show there’s more to Mendoza than just persona. This anecdote gives a glimpse of Mendoza’s competitive drive and intellect, traits that could make him a game-changer at the next level.
As NFL scouts evaluate him for the top pick, it’s clear Mendoza’s character and intelligence could be just as valuable as his physical skills
“His speech when he got the Heisman, and he said, ‘Toughness doesn’t have to be loud’,” she continued. “That is 100% him… Just one of the most genuine people you will ever meet.”
Mendoza Expected To Be Drafted By The Raiders
And that’s exactly what makes Mendoza the most intriguing quarterback prospect in this year’s draft. He’s a cerebral competitor, a natural leader, and a player who can command a room, whether it’s a law lecture or an NFL locker room.
The Las Vegas Raiders own the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft and are expected to select Mendoza first overall.
And if the top pick lives up to the hype, Mendoza won’t just change the trajectory of the Raiders rebuild — he could help redefine what it means to wear the Silver and Black for years to come.
