Alberto Mendoza, the backup quarterback for Indiana, is planning to transfer, according to On3’s Pete Nakos. This news comes just hours after the Hoosiers celebrated their College Football Playoff national championship.
Mendoza is a redshirt freshman. He spent the season as the backup to his older brother, Fernando Mendoza. Fernando led Indiana to a 27-21 win over Miami and had a Heisman Trophy-worthy season. Fernando is now expected to enter the NFL draft.
Alberto is 6-foot-2 and weighs 205 pounds. He played in nine games this season. Even with limited action, he made an impression. He completed 18 of 24 passes for 286 yards and five touchdowns. He threw one interception and ran for 190 yards on 13 carries. He showed he can make plays, especially when running. Many believe he has the potential to be a starting quarterback.
The move to enter the transfer portal was expected. Indiana recently signed Josh Hoover from TCU. Hoover has started 31 games and thrown for more than 9,600 career yards. He is expected to be the Hoosiers’ starter in 2026.
If Mendoza stayed at Indiana, he would likely remain a backup. By transferring, he gets a chance to compete for playing time right away at another school. Players from Indiana and Miami have until January 24 to enter the transfer portal after their seasons end.
Mendoza’s next step will be closely watched by fans. Many are curious where he will play next and if he can become a starting quarterback.
