Brayden Mendoza Brayden Mendoza 6'6" | 290 lbs | OL Vista Grande | 2027 State AZ is a really intriguing prospect because at 6’7”, 290 pounds, it’d be easy to look at him and assume he’s just a massive body who wins because he takes up space. But the tape shows there’s more to him than that. He’s not some big statue out there — he can get his feet moving, pull to either side, and actually has a pretty good feel for how to use his length in pass protection. That reach makes it hard for defenders to get into his chest, and he does a nice job keeping his weight forward so he can stay in control of the rep. In the run game, he consistently closes space and makes defenders deal with all of that size before they can get near the ball. What I like most is that he rarely lets the defender initiate the contact; he gets off the ball with intent and looks to take over the rep early. There is still room for him to get quicker with his feet, especially as the competition gets better, but for a player his size he moves well enough that it is not some huge concern. He’s also got a 6’10” wingspan, and the recruiting attention is already starting to show up with a few offers on the board. That’s going to pick up even more if he can improve on last season.

Massive size and frame at 6’7” 295 lbs. Elite length (82 inch wingspan) gives him a large blocking radius and the ability to strike defenders first to generate movement. Very effective in the run game showing he can clear lanes and get vertical push by overpowering opponents at the POA. Shows he can execute different types of blocks. Excels as a drive blocker but can also work to the second level or get out in front of perimeter plays. Good ability to use his hands and latch on to sustain throughout the play. Strong in pass protection, his length makes him tough to work around and he’s able to keep a clean pocket with active hands and feet. Picked up his first offer from Black Hills State in February.

Brayden Mendoza Brayden Mendoza 6'6" | 290 lbs | OL Vista Grande | 2027 State AZ is very technically sound on the end of Vista Grande’s offensive line. His long arms make it incredibly tough for defenders to get around him while his massive strides allow him to get depth quickly when in his pass set. When his offense hands the ball off, Mendoza is a little less of a technician and relies more on his aggressiveness and overpowering strength. At 300 lbs with a solid base, he can really drive off the line of scrimmage and open up huge running lanes for the running backs. Mendoza is a player coaches will want to be in on early, before his recruitment really skyrockets.

Performed well as a freshman starting at center for ALA and has since transferred to Casa Grande. Has great size and length in his frame at 6’6” 305 lbs. while holding the athleticism and movement skills to play anywhere on the OL. He’s a mauler that is violent and aggressive at the POA. Can finish his blocks to the ground playing with leverage and exploding through contact. Plus mobility and initial quickness out of his stance to gain early positional leverage. Possesses strong and quick hands going from the snap to engagement. Has the foundational skillset and size that colleges look for at an early age.