Fernando Mendoza was selected first overall in the NFL Draft, celebrating the moment with his family at home. He chose to stay in Florida with his mother, Elsa Mendoza, who battles multiple sclerosis and uses a wheelchair.
Mendoza's mother was diagnosed with MS when he was four years old. She shared her journey in a letter, detailing how she kept her condition private for years to avoid worrying her sons. She expressed her commitment to always support them, despite the challenges of the disease.
Mendoza's parents, both children of Cuban refugees, have strong ties to Miami. His father was a rower and played football, while his mother played tennis at the University of Miami.