Tom Brady's Advice Could Shape Raiders QB Fernando Mendoza's Career

Sports Money Tom Brady's Advice Could Shape Raiders QB Fernando Mendoza's Career By Trevor Woods,

Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Trevor Woods is a reporter who covers the NFL and college football.Follow Author Jun 30, 2026, 11:30pm EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.Summary. The struggling Las Vegas Raiders have big hopes for 2026 No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza, a Heisman-winning quarterback. Despite his collegiate dominance, Raiders minority owner Tom Brady stresses that NFL success requires significant development. Brady is actively mentoring Mendoza, advising him to embody supreme competitiveness, leadership and mental and physical toughness to earn his teammates' respect. Mendoza values Brady's firsthand insights, particularly on prioritizing team goals and caring for teammates over individual glory. Brady, impressed by Mendoza's maturity, believes his guidance will be crucial for the rookie's bright future.

HENDERSON, NEVADA - MAY 02: Fernando Mendoza #15 of the Las Vegas Raiders looks to pass during the team's rookie minicamp at the Las Vegas Raiders Headquarters/Intermountain Health Performance Center on May 02, 2026 in Henderson, Nevada. (Photo by David Becker/Getty Images)Getty ImagesThe Las Vegas Raiders are a franchise that’s been struggling for over two decades. Since the Raiders appeared in the Super Bowl during the 2002 season, they’ve made the playoffs just twice with both being wild-card round losses. However, there’s a new hope in Las Vegas at the quarterback position in 2026 No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza.