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.

     Two University of Miami Hurricanes players were then chosen. Offensive lineman Francis Mauigoa was drafted xxx overall by the xxxxxx  xxxxxxx. Defensive lineman Rueben Bain Jr. was taken by the xxxxxx xxxxxxx at xxxx overall. Both players helped the Canes reach the CFP National Championship game against Indiana last season.