Locals Taken In First Round

     Several football players with South Florida connections were chosen by teams in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. It was held on Thursday night in Pittsburgh. 

     University of Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza was taken first overall by the Las Vegas Raiders. He captured a CFP National Championship back in January. Mendoza played high school football with the Columbus Explorers.

     Three University of Miami Hurricanes players were then chosen. Offensive lineman Francis Mauigoa was drafted 10th overall by the New York Giants. Defensive lineman Rueben Bain Jr., a former Miami Central Rockets player, was taken by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at 15th overall.

     The other Hurricanes player selected was edge rusher Akheem Mesidor. The Los Angeles Chargers took him at 22nd overall. All three players helped the Canes reach the CFP National Championship game against Indiana last season.