"Pittsburgh is a great opportunity and it's a great venue, and I'm really excited to see all the guys...walk across the stage Thursday night. It'll be a dream for a lot of guys. However, my mom really wanted to do it at home and so do my parents."
"I wanted to stay and make the memory with everyone who poured into my football journey, mentors, coaches, family, friends - being able to share that moment with all of them is going to be the best memory I can make."
"Mommy, this is your trophy as much as it is mine. You've always been my biggest fan. You're my light. You're my why. You're my biggest supporter."
"Your sacrifices, courage, love, those have been my first playbook and the playbook that I'm going to carry (by) my side through my entire life."
Fernando Mendoza confirmed he will not attend the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh, opting to celebrate at home with his mother. The Heisman Trophy winner expressed excitement for the event but prioritized family, stating it would be easier and more meaningful to share the moment with loved ones. He emphasized the importance of his family's support throughout his journey, particularly acknowledging his mother, who has multiple sclerosis, during his Heisman acceptance speech, highlighting her sacrifices and influence on his life.
Read at TODAY.com
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