At a Glance
- Fernando Mendoza, the projected No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, credits his two younger brothers for his success.
- The Mendoza brothers grew up in Miami, playing high-school football at Christopher Columbus High School and later joining Indiana University.
- Together they have raised over $160,000 for multiple sclerosis awareness.
- Why it matters: The family’s story shows how close bonds can shape athletic careers and philanthropy.
The Mendoza family’s journey from Miami high-school fields to the pinnacle of college football is a testament to sibling support and shared ambition. Fernando Mendoza, the star quarterback of Indiana University’s national championship team, openly thanks his brothers, Alberto and Max, for driving him forward.
Family Foundations
Fernando, born in October 2003, and his older brother Alberto, born in September 2005, both attended Christopher Columbus High School in Miami. Their younger brother Max was recently admitted to the same school. All three were raised by parents Elsa and Fernando Mendoza Sr., who instilled a strong work ethic and close family ties.
At Columbus, Fernando was a three-star prospect and team captain during his junior and senior years. Alberto later took over as starting quarterback, leading the team to back-to-back state titles in 2022 and 2023.
A Shared Journey to Indiana
Fernando began his college career at the University of California, Berkeley, where he redshirted in 2022 and played through the 2024 season. In December 2024 he entered the NCAA transfer portal and committed to Indiana University shortly thereafter. Alberto followed suit, committing in December 2023.
“This is an opportunity of a lifetime. Not a lot of people get to play college football with their brother. It’s such a special moment for my family and I,” Fernando told the Big Ten Network in December 2025.
Alberto served as the Hoosiers’ backup quarterback during the 2026 national championship season. In September 2025, the brothers became the first pair since 2015 to both throw touchdown passes in the same FBS game.
Championship Glory and Post-Game Moves
On January 19, 2026, Indiana defeated the University of Miami Hurricanes 16-0 to cap a perfect 16-0 season and win the College Football Playoff National Championship. Fernando led the team, while Alberto stood on the sidelines as backup.
After the title game, Alberto entered the NCAA transfer portal. The move was widely expected after Indiana signed former TCU quarterback Josh Hoover earlier that month.
Heisman Triumph and Family Tribute
In December 2025, Fernando was awarded the Heisman Trophy. During his acceptance speech, he thanked both Alberto and Max:
“My lifelong teammate, Alberto. You’re my closest confidante, the one I trust more than anybody to get through a tough day, tough play, tough game. I love you and thank you for always giving it to me straight, no matter the circumstance,” he said.
Turning to Max, Fernando added, “To my little brother, Max, thank you for bringing joy to me and everyone around you. Your joy is infectious. Love you, bro.”
Philanthropy Rooted in Family
Elsa, diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2020, became a catalyst for the brothers’ charitable efforts. Since learning of her diagnosis, Fernando and Alberto have used their platforms to raise awareness and funds for MS causes.
Through a fundraising page with the National MS Society, they have raised more than $160,000 as of January 2026. Fernando wrote in the fundraiser’s description:
“My mom means the world to me-she’s the most caring and positive person I know-and I’ll keep doing everything I can to support her and others living with MS!”
In a December 2025 letter to Fernando published by The Players’ Tribune, Elsa reflected:
“No matter what kind of state I’ve been in, or day I’ve been having – you’ve never once looked away. You’ve never once treated me like I’m embarrassing, or deficient, or anything other than someone you love and are standing by.”
Max’s Future Beyond the Field
While Max doesn’t play football like his older brothers, he is a devoted sports fan with aspirations of working in broadcasting. According to sports journalist Kelsey Nicole Nelson, Max is exploring opportunities in media.
The brothers spoke in December 2025 while Max was in New York City attending Fernando’s Heisman ceremony.
Key Takeaways
- Fernando Mendoza’s rise to the top of college football is deeply tied to his brothers’ support.
- Alberto’s role as backup quarterback and Max’s media ambitions showcase the family’s diverse talents.
- Together, the Mendoza brothers have raised over $160,000 for multiple sclerosis, demonstrating how personal challenges can fuel public advocacy.
- The family’s story highlights the power of close bonds in achieving both athletic excellence and philanthropic impact.
