2026 NFL Draft: Former Cal OC Reveals Traits That Set Up Fernando Mendoza for Success

INDIANAPOLIS — When Jake Spavital joined Cal's coaching staff ahead of the 2023 season, he immediately started hearing "great stories" about a true freshman quarterback on the Bears’ scout team. They were stories about how Fernando Mendoza attacked his role with an uncommon purpose. He studied the tape of his defensive teammates, committed to giving them the best possible look. He encouraged and celebrated his offensive linemen and receivers like they were the starters. That’s all you! Great job! That’s great blocking up front! That’s a great catch! That’s a great route! "A year later, he was competing for the [starting] job, and you just see him paying attention to every detail," Spavital,...