Homegrown talents taken in the 2026 NFL Draft
By Noral Parham
Published on April 24, 2026.
The 2026 NFL Draft officially began in Pittsburgh on April 23, with the Las Vegas Raiders selecting IU quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick. The New York Jets traded up to select IU wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. who performed well during his team's 16-0 national championship run. The draft marked a significant moment for Indiana's football resurgence, with several notable players including Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Price. The running back position also saw a resurgence, becoming the highest-drafted running back since Saquon Barkley went No. 2 in 2018.
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