Fernando Mendoza, the projected No. 1 pick in the NFL draft, is facing backlash after a resurfaced social media comment he allegedly made about George Floyd began making the rounds online. The controversy stems from a past response Mendoza reportedly left under a post by LeBron James regarding Floyd, the Black man whose 2020 death while being restrained by former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin sparked nationwide protests and reignited conversations around police brutality and racial injustice.
Fernando Mendoza Blasted Over Resurfaced George Floyd Remark
Under the post, Mendoza allegedly wrote, “You need to explain the context of the first photo of the cop on the man, because you never know what he did wrong.”
The resurfaced comment has since triggered intense criticism online, with many accusing the athlete of being dismissive toward the circumstances surrounding Floyd’s death.
Fans Rip Fernando Mendoza Over ‘Tone-Deaf’ George Floyd Remark
As screenshots of the post circulated, critics wasted no time condemning Mendoza. “Fernando Mendoza criticized for resurfaced comment on LeBron’s George Floyd post: ‘You never know what he did wrong.’ Tone-deaf takes like this keep sparking outrage,” one person wrote.
Another user reacted even more strongly, posting, “Caucasians are always doing this…wtf is wrong with y’all….don’t yall have sympathy.”
Others suggested Mendoza’s remarks were bound to spark controversy from the start. “Asking for context in that moment was always going to start a firestorm,” another person added.
Some reactions turned even more pointed, with one critic writing, “He’s a white Cuban. That group of people is completely loyal to white supremacy. Probably hates that he needs black athletes for him to be successful.”
Some Fans Defend Fernando Mendoza Amid Backlash
Despite the backlash, not everyone saw an issue with the resurfaced remark. “WHAT’S the issue? He’s speaking facts!!! George Floyd was a criminal and died from a fentanyl overdose,” one supporter wrote.
Another user questioned the outrage, adding, “Where’s the lie though?”
A third similarly posted, “Is he wrong though?”
Others argued Mendoza’s comment was being misinterpreted, with one supporter defending him by saying, “Idiots- he’s literally saying blacking out the picture for people who weren’t aware of what the cop did was wrong lol- he’s literally saying provide context!”
Fernando Mendoza Is Expected To Skip NFL Draft Night Spotlight
The resurfaced controversy comes as Fernando Mendoza remains one of the most talked-about names ahead of the upcoming NFL Draft.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Mendoza has informed the league that he does not plan to attend the draft in person and instead wants to experience the milestone surrounded by family in Miami.
The quarterback is widely projected to be selected first overall, with many expecting the Las Vegas Raiders to take him with the No. 1 pick after his standout college season.
Mendoza enters the draft after a massive year at Indiana, where he secured the Heisman Trophy and helped lead the program to a College Football Playoff national championship, cementing himself as one of the most highly anticipated prospects in this year’s class.
Kirk Cousins Welcomes Fernando Mendoza Amid Draft Buzz
As speculation continues to build that Fernando Mendoza could soon join his team, veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins is already making it clear he has no issue mentoring the young star.
Speaking out about Mendoza potentially being drafted to the roster, Cousins emphasized that his focus remains on doing what is best for the team. “I honestly don’t want to start unless I’m the best option, and I told Klint that,” Cousins said. “The best player should play. As long as that’s the case, I have no qualms about however it plays out.”
Cousins went on to praise Mendoza’s future potential, saying he believes the projected No. 1 pick will be a major asset. “I do think Fernando is going to be a great addition to our team,” Cousins continued. “I think he’s going to have a great future in our league.”
The veteran quarterback also made it clear he is prepared to help guide Mendoza if he joins the locker room. “I have no problem being a voice in the room to help him to the degree I can,” Cousins added. “He’s going to have great support around him with the coaching staff, but to be able to watch a veteran quarterback go through his habits and routines and process, that can be a great asset for him.”