Donald Trump hosted a delegation from Indiana that included wide receiver Charlie Becker (left) and head coach Curt Cignetti (right).
Julia Demaree Nikhinson / AP
Fernando Mendoza was absent from Indiana University’s White House visit on Monday, which honored the Hoosiers’ college football national championship. The Las Vegas Raiders quarterback had stated earlier this month that he would skip the event if it conflicted with any team-related activities.
“I’m at the bottom of the pecking order here,” Mendoza said after a rookie minicamp practice. “I have to prove myself. I can’t afford to miss practice. Nothing official has been communicated to me—I don’t have the schedule—but I just wouldn’t. As a rookie, that doesn’t look good, and I want to do my best to support my teammates. I don’t think missing would help achieve that.”
According to the Raiders’ official offseason schedule, the team had no formal practices or workouts on Monday. Their next scheduled activity is May 18, the first OTA session.
“Fernando couldn’t be here today because, as I mentioned, he’s now a member of the Las Vegas Raiders,” President Donald Trump said during his remarks. “Let’s see how strong their team is, and I believe he’ll do well. He’s a winner.”
Mendoza was not the only notable absentee. Center Pat Coogan and cornerback D’Angelo Ponds were also missing from the event due to NFL commitments. Indiana set a program record with eight players selected in April’s NFL Draft.
Trump highlighted Mendoza’s achievements and his role in the school’s first football national championship. He celebrated Mendoza as Indiana’s first Heisman Trophy winner and praised his fourth-quarter touchdown run in the title game against Miami.
“He’s going to be a good one,” Trump said.
The event saw strong representation from returning Indiana players. Charlie Becker, one of Mendoza’s primary targets during the College Football Playoffs, and Jamari Sharpe, who sealed the championship win with a late interception, both spoke on behalf of the university, alongside head coach Curt Cignetti.
Mendoza is one of four national champion Hoosiers to join the Raiders this offseason. Running back Roman Hemby and wide receiver E.J. Williams Jr. signed as undrafted free agents shortly after the draft. Wide receiver Jonathan Brady earned a contract after impressing as a tryout participant during rookie minicamp.