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The excitement around rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza increases as the Las Vegas Raiders are preparing for training camp. He has already received praise from his mentor, Tom Brady.
Now, Brady has shown a gesture that shows his belief in Mendoza’s future.
Tom Brady bought Mendoza’s first-ever NFL autographed rookie card during Fanatics Fest in New York City. It was something more than a collector’s move. It highlighted the seven-time Super Bowl champion’s confidence in the QB expected to lead the Raiders.
“Brady was at a Fanatics Fest in New York City, and he pulled out a special card from his pocket,” wrote journalist Marcus Johnson of SB Nation. “It was an autographed rookie card of Fernando Mendoza. It was Mendoza’s first autograph in the NFL, and Brady put in a bid to attain it.”
Johnson’s statement on SB Nation shows the growing relationship between Brady and Mendoza. Since the pre-draft process, Brady has been his mentor, guiding him on leadership, professionalism, and decision-making.
By getting Mendoza’s first NFL autograph, he strengthened his public backing as he begins his professional career. Mendoza entered the NFL as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft after an outstanding collegiate career.
He won the Heisman Trophy while leading the Hoosiers to an undefeated season and a national championship.
Mendoza threw 41 touchdown passes during his season and is seen as the franchise’s future QB, although veteran Kirk Cousins is expected to provide competition and experience.
Brady has emphasized that Mendoza must focus on becoming the best teammate possible rather than worrying about outside expectations. They have stayed in touch through texts and personal meetings, as Brady encourages Mendoza to make decisions that benefit the team.
Though Mendoza continues to create excitement, expectations for his immediate role remain uncertain.
Sports Illustrated journalist predicts Fernando Mendoza won’t beat Kirk Cousins despite growing hype
There are fewer chances of the Raiders handing the starting QB role to Mendoza right away, as per Albert Breer.
“Could Mendoza win the job? I think it’s probably unlikely,” said Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated. “Kubiak, I believe, will be very deliberate in how the Raiders bring Mendoza along, as much as anything to ensure that the progress he’s making takes and becomes permanent.”
Breer explained that offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak intends not to rush Mendoza’s progress to ensure every step is sustainable.
The rookie is expected to receive snaps with the first-team offense throughout the summer, which will allow him to gain experience with starters.
With Kirk Cousins’ familiarity with Kubiak’s system, Las Vegas can afford to ease Mendoza into the offense while preparing him to take over as the franchise’s QB.
What are your views on Fernando Mendoza taking over as the franchise’s QB? Let us know in the comments!
Read more at Quarter Back Central!
