Get ready to mark your calendars, football fans, because the 2026 NFL Draft is shaping up to be a monumental event for Indiana Hoosiers fans! But here’s where it gets exciting: the Hoosiers aren’t just NCAA champions—they’re poised to send a wave of top-tier talent to the pros. With so much buzz surrounding these players, we’re hosting a Q&A with NFL enthusiasts across SB Nation’s vast network. So, who are these Hoosier stars, and what makes them NFL-ready? Let’s dive in—and don’t forget to drop your questions in the comments below! (Psst: If you’re visiting from an NFL team site, no need to create a new account.)
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Now, let’s meet the Indiana players with their eyes on the 2026 NFL Draft—including a few who might slip into undrafted free agency but still have what it takes to make it.
QB Fernando Mendoza
If there’s one name you’ll hear repeatedly, it’s Fernando Mendoza. The Heisman Trophy winner is widely tipped to be the No. 1 overall pick, landing with the Las Vegas Raiders. But here’s the part most people miss: Mendoza’s journey to Indiana wasn’t straightforward. After three seasons at Cal—starting in the last two—he transferred to Indiana last offseason. His stats? Jaw-dropping. Mendoza completed 72% of his passes for 3,535 yards, led the nation with 41 passing touchdowns, and threw just six interceptions. At 6’5”, he’s got the size to command the field, and Indiana’s offense gave him ample opportunities to shine, from RPOs to deep shots downfield. But here’s the controversial question: Can he replicate his college success in the NFL, or will the pro game expose weaknesses we haven’t seen yet?
WR Omar Cooper Jr.
A Hoosier through and through, Omar Cooper Jr. spent his entire college career at Indiana after committing out of Lawrence North High School in Indianapolis. He emerged as Indiana’s top receiver in 2025, showcasing a unique blend of strength and elusiveness to win off the line and rack up yards after the catch. His acrobatic catches have become a highlight reel staple. But here’s where it gets interesting: While his college production is undeniable, will his size and speed translate to the NFL? Let’s debate that in the comments.
WR Elijah Sarratt
Elijah Sarratt is another transfer success story, joining Indiana in 2024 after stints at James Madison and St. Francis (PA). He led the Hoosiers in receiving in 2024 and nearly matched Cooper Jr. in 2025, despite a minor injury. Like Cooper, Sarratt dominates off the line and thrives through contact. But here’s the twist: His production dipped slightly in 2025. Was it due to injury, or is there more to the story? Share your thoughts below.
CB D’Angelo Ponds
D’Angelo Ponds is the underdog with a chip on his shoulder. Standing between 5’9” and 5’11”, he’s undersized for an outside corner, but his football IQ and physicality more than make up for it. After earning FWAA Freshman All-America honors at JMU, he transferred to Indiana in 2024 and became a defensive cornerstone. His Rose Bowl fumble-forcing hit on Alabama’s Ty Simpson is the stuff of legend. But here’s the debate: Can an undersized corner like Ponds thrive in the NFL, or will he be limited to a slot role?
S Louis Moore
Louis Moore is the definition of being in the right place at the right time—but not just by luck. His instincts and positioning make him a ballhawk, as evidenced by his knack for breaking up passes. After a brief detour to Ole Miss in 2024, he returned to Indiana in 2025 and solidified his NFL potential. But here’s the question: Does he have the speed to keep up with NFL receivers, or will he be exposed at the next level?
EDGE Mikail Kamara
Mikail Kamara is a prime example of why stats don’t tell the whole story. After a 10-sack season in 2024, his numbers dropped to just two in 2025. But here’s what most people miss: His role shifted to the “stud” position, where he took on outside linebacker duties and led the Big Ten in quarterback pressures. His ability to disrupt the pocket is undeniable. Controversial take: Is Kamara a one-trick pony, or is he the versatile pass rusher NFL teams crave?
LB Aiden Fisher
Aiden Fisher joined Indiana in 2025 and quickly became a defensive staple. His instincts and tackling ability make him a prospect to watch, though his draft stock remains a question mark.
IOL Pat Coogan
Pat Coogan transferred from Notre Dame in 2025 to anchor Indiana’s offensive line at center. His experience and technique could make him a late-round steal or priority undrafted free agent.
RB Kaelon Black & Roman Hemby
Kaelon Black, a former JMU starter, and Roman Hemby, a Maryland standout, both transferred to Indiana in 2024 and 2025, respectively. While neither dominated the backfield, their versatility and potential could earn them NFL looks.
TE Riley Nowakowski & S Devan Boykin
Riley Nowakowski (Wisconsin transfer) and Devan Boykin (NC State transfer) rounded out Indiana’s 2025 roster. Nowakowski’s blocking prowess and Boykin’s ball skills could make them late-round or undrafted sleepers.
Other Hoosiers to Watch
Don’t sleep on these players who could hear their names called on draft day or sign as undrafted free agents:
- TE Holden Staes
- OT Zen Michalski
- WR E.J. Williams
Final Thought: The 2026 NFL Draft could be a historic moment for Indiana football, but which of these players will rise to the occasion? And which ones will fall short of expectations? Let us know your predictions—and don’t hold back on the controversial takes!
