The Fernandomania wave has officially reached the NFLPA. The Las Vegas Raiders' rookie quarterback, Fernando Mendoza, has been named the top player on the NFLPA's 2026 Rising Stars list, a projection of which first-year players are poised to become top-50 licensed merchandise sellers.
Mendoza, who won the Heisman Trophy and led Indiana to its first national championship before being selected with the No. 1 overall pick, tops a group of ten rookies identified by the union as having the highest potential retail impact. The ranking factors in early consumer demand, pre-existing NIL exposure, fan support, social media following, and other metrics.
“The next wave of retail game changers has arrived,” the NFLPA announced on social media, unveiling the list that includes standout names like Caleb Downs (Dallas Cowboys), Jeremiyah Love (Arizona Cardinals), and Carnell Tate (Tennessee Titans). The full list also features Makai Lemon (Philadelphia Eagles), Sonny Styles (Washington Commanders), Jordyn Tyson (New Orleans Saints), Arvell Reese (New York Giants), Ja'Kobi Lane (Baltimore Ravens), and Rueben Bain Jr. (Tampa Bay Buccaneers).
Mendoza's top billing comes as no surprise given his electrifying college career and the massive fanbase he built at Indiana. His transition to the pros has been closely watched, but there's a lingering storyline: he remains one of four rookie quarterbacks yet to sign his contract. Along with Mendoza, second-rounder Ty Simpson (13th overall), Carson Beck (65th overall), and Drew Allar (76th overall) are all unsigned as training camps approach.
While rookie holdouts have become rare in the modern NFL, the situation is worth monitoring as preseason games loom. The Raiders are counting on Mendoza to be the face of the franchise, and his marketability is already off the charts—even before he signs his first professional deal.
The NFLPA's Rising Stars list is more than a popularity contest; it's a forecasting tool for brands, retailers, and partners looking to invest early. Mendoza's presence at the top signals that the Raiders' investment in him is already paying dividends off the field. For more on the Raiders' star power, check out Maxx Crosby calling out Roger Goodell over strict cleat rules—a sign the Silver and Black aren't afraid to speak up.
As the league prepares for the 2026 season, all eyes will be on Mendoza to see if his on-field performance matches his off-field hype. The Fernandomania train is just getting started.
