Tom Brady Sends Welcoming Message to New Raiders QB Fernando Mendoza
As expected in the months leading up to the NFL Draft, the Las Vegas Raiders selected Fernando Mendoza, the former Indiana Hoosiers quarterback, with the No. 1 overall pick on Thursday night.
Mendoza opted not to attend the draft in Pittsburgh, instead choosing to experience the moment at home surrounded by family, friends, and coaches.
Not long after receiving the call, Raiders minority owner Tom Brady took to social media to share a message - not only welcoming Mendoza, but also addressing the entire rookie class.
"Congratulations to all the rookies who are joining the NFL this weekend. I hope you can appreciate this special moment… you've earned it through hard work, discipline, and determination. You've made your family proud, along with everyone else on your journey that has supported you," Brady wrote.
"But this is just the beginning. When you wake up tomorrow morning, just know that your career will be defined by what happens going forward. You'll need to take everything you do to the next level in order to compete with the world's best.
"Welcome to Las Vegas, Fernando Mendoza," he added. "Time to get to work.”
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Mendoza is expected to begin the season as the backup on the roster behind veteran Kirk Cousins, giving him time to learn, develop, and grow into the position - while still being viewed as the centerpiece of the Raiders' long-term future.
Mendoza understands, however, that he is starting at the bottom of the depth chart, echoing the same "earn it" message delivered by Brady.
"I believe I'm still the underdog. I can tell you right now, I'm not one of the 32 quarterbacks," Mendoza said in a post-draft interview. "I'm at the bottom of the totem pole right now. I gotta earn the respect of my teammates. I'm ready to do whatever the team needs."
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This story was originally published April 24, 2026 at 12:18 PM.