Even after his rise, Fernando Mendoza kept the focus on those who shaped him, addressing the absence of Archie Manning at a key event. 

Reported by Jeff Duncan of NOLA.com, Fernando Mendoza won the 2025 Manning Award in New Orleans. While speaking to reporters, Mendoza credited Archie Manning for the success and candidly discussed his absence on the great day. 

“I still have the picture where Archie sent me the text, 'hey, you're invited to the Manning Passing Academy,'” Mendoza said. “I believe that is truly one of my milestones in my football career...helped me improve my confidence, skills and abilities in order to elevate my college game to the next level, which was a snowball effect, and at that point led to winning the Manning Award.”

The 1989 Hall of Fame quarterback, Archie, is known for his exceptional collegiate football career at Ole Miss. Primarily known for his dominant gameplay, he was nicknamed “Super Manning”.

Due to his consistent back issues, he missed the 2026 Manning Award Ceremony but addressed Mendoza receving the award.

“I’m very, very disappointed I can’t be there. Mainly because I’m so crazy about Fernando,” Manning said. “He’s just a great quarterback — and great people, he and his whole family. Fernando just bubbles over with personality. Our whole (MPA) staff was crazy about him. This one is tough for me because of how much I think of Fernando.”

In his absence, his eldest son, Cooper, hosted the ceremony and conducted the Q&A session with Fernando.

Despite missing the facilitation ceremony, Archie has texted and apologized to Fernando for missing his award ceremony.

Mendoza was given the award for leading Indiana to a historic 16-0 season, which happens to be their first national football title.

During the 2025 season, he earned a PFF grade of 87.9 while throwing for 3,535 yards and scoring 41 touchdowns with just six interceptions.

Calling it “one of the greatest experiences of my life,” Mendoza has learned a lot from Archie Manning.

Why Did Archie Manning Miss the Award Reception Ceremony

Due to the 13-years of the NFL career with the Saints, Oilers, and Vikings, Archie Manning’s body took significant wear and tear.

“I was in constant pain,” Archie said about his back issue. “It had gotten to the point where I couldn’t stand more than 10 minutes. “

This huge toll on the body has made him undergo multiple back surgeries followed by rehabs.

Recently, he again went through surgery, which included a six-day recovery time at the hospital followed by another 12 days in rehab.

After six back surgeries, the pain in his back and legs is gone, but according to the doctors, he still has a long way to go.

What are your thoughts on Fernando Mendoza winning the Manning Award? Let us know in the comments.

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Written by

Kunwar Yashaswee Chhaunker

Edited by

Shubhi Rathore