Before winning the Heisman trophy and the national championship, Fernando Mendoza’s mom, Elsa, penned him a beautiful letter: “Your accomplishments will NEVER impact how proud of you I am. Because you are already everything I could have hoped for as a mother.... and that has nothing to do with the miles you throw or the touchdowns you score. It has everything to do with the man you’ve grown into. As an oldest brother who shows the way. As a hard worker who has an unstoppable spirit. As a Cuban American athlete who represents his community. As a leader who lifts up, and lends kindness, even when no one is looking. As a person of faith, who leans on God and trusts Him, even when it’s an uneasy road. You have a future that’s so bright and a heart that’s so full. My gentle giant. My darling son. My buddy. My teammate. I believe in you with every part of me. I’m proud of you, not just today, but every day.” playerstribu.ne/Fernando @fernandomendoza | @IndianaFootball | @Raiders | #NFLDraft