Jason Bell Champions Fernando Mendoza as the Ultimate NFL Draft Choice
Former Dallas Cowboys cornerback Jason Bell has emphatically endorsed Fernando Mendoza as the "perfect" number one pick for the 2026 NFL Draft. Bell, speaking exclusively, highlighted Mendoza's unique blend of elite skill and authentic character, dismissing concerns about his suitability for professional leadership.
Mendoza's Leadership and Accuracy Praised
Mendoza, the standout quarterback from the Indiana Hoosiers, is widely anticipated to be the first selection. While his prestigious talent is undisputed, some analysts have questioned whether his distinctive personality aligns with the demands of an NFL locker room. Bell, however, firmly disagrees, predicting a "roaring success" for the young prospect.
"All you have to be is yourself," Bell stated. "The one thing pro players look at is consistency. Whoever you are, whatever you are, we'll accept you. Just be that person always." He emphasised Mendoza's collegiate experience and yearly improvement, noting, "The most important thing for that position is accuracy—and he is accurate. I don't think the moment is too big for him. He can lock in and focus, even if he goes to a high-pressure team like Vegas."
Bell added a compelling endorsement: "Most importantly, Tom Brady likes him," underscoring Mendoza's respect among football legends.
Kyler Murray's Revival with the Vikings
Beyond Mendoza, Bell expressed excitement about another quarterback, Kyler Murray, who recently signed a one-year, $1.3 million contract with the Minnesota Vikings after his release from the Arizona Cardinals. Once considered among the NFL's elite, Murray is poised for a resurgence at U.S. Bank Stadium.
"The Vikings are going to be outstanding with Murray at quarterback," Bell projected. "Justin Jefferson should have an unbelievable year when Murray is throwing to him. There will obviously be a load of eyes on Kyler, but I think he will thrive with all the attention on him."
NFL's Global Growth and Topps Partnership
Bell's comments came during an appearance at the Fanatics Collectibles store in London, where he previewed the new 2025 Topps Chrome Football set. This release marks Topps' return as the official exclusive trading card licensee for the NFL and NFLPA, their first licensed football cards since 2016.
The timing coincides with the NFL's expanding global footprint, with games scheduled for France, Spain, and Australia in 2026. Bell, 48, credited the UK market as a catalyst for this international growth. "I'm here because of the fans," he said. "The growth in the NFL has happened because of the response from fans here. We would not have global growth if we didn't have the success we first had here. It's the fan base that has made everything possible."
He elaborated on the importance of live games in new regions: "You have to play these games in these countries to get fans out to see that this is a different experience. When you're at a live game, you're entertained nonstop from beginning to end. It's about getting in front of a different audience globally. Every sport is doing that, and I think the NFL does the best job."
In summary, Bell's insights not only champion Mendoza as a top draft pick but also reflect on key NFL narratives, from Murray's potential comeback to the league's strategic international expansion, all while celebrating fan-driven growth and new collectible ventures.
