Indiana Football's 2026 NFL Draft Success: Record-Breaking Selections BLOOMINGTON — The Indiana football program continued its momentum following a perfect national championship season by securing a historic performance in the 2026 NFL Draft. For the first time in program history, Indiana had two players selected in the first round, marking a significant milestone after a 22-year gap since the last first-round pick. The draft, held in Pittsburgh, saw multiple Hoosiers drafted across multiple rounds, reflecting the team’s growing national reputation and the impact of its championship-winning season. The Las Vegas Raiders made a statement by selecting Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick. Mendoza, a standout performer during Indiana’s undefeated campaign, became the first Hoosier to be drafted first overall in program history. His selection was widely anticipated, given his elite arm strength, leadership on the field, and consistent production throughout the season. The New York Jets followed up with a blockbuster move by drafting Indiana receiver Omar Cooper Jr. with the No. 30th pick in the first round. The Jets traded back into the bottom of the first round to secure Cooper, a former standout receiver known for his route-running precision and ability to make plays in critical moments. His selection was a testament to his development during the 2025 season, where he emerged as one of the nation’s top wideouts. The Jets’ draft night continued with the selection of Indiana cornerback D’Angelo Ponds at the 50th pick in the second round. Ponds, a former teammate of Cooper, will reunite with his IU teammate in New York. Ponds’ selection highlighted his versatility as a coverage specialist and his ability to disrupt opposing offenses.#las_vegas_raiders #baltimore_ravens #san_francisco_49ers #new_york_jets #indiana_football
