Fernando Mendoza Becomes the Third Independence Bowl Alumni to be Selected with First Overall Pick in NFL Draft

As the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2026, the bowl saw just its third former player selected with the first overall selection in the NFL Draft during Thursday night’s first round, as Fernando Mendoza was selected by the Las Vegas Raiders with the first pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Independence Bowl 50th Anniversary Kickoff Party Set for May 7

Indy Bowl Overtime, hosted for the first time by the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl in 2025, will be even bigger in 2026, serving as the official Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl 50th Anniversary Kickoff Party.

15th Annual Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl Youth Football Clinic Hits the Field on Saturday, June 6

A summer staple on the Independence Bowl Foundation’s slate of year-round community events, the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl Youth Football Clinic returns to Independence Stadium for its 15th edition on Saturday, June 6 from 8-11 a.m.

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Eight Independence Bowl Alumni Selected in 2025 NFL Draft

Eight Independence Bowl Alumni Selected in 2025 NFL Draft

The 2025 NFL Draft is in the books, and the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl was highly represented throughout the weekend festivities, as eight Independence Bowl alumni were selected in the seven-round draft – including five players in the first three rounds.

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