Raiders rookie QB Fernando Mendoza gets Brady advice, contract delay

Fernando Mendoza, the Heisman‑winning quarterback from Indiana, was selected No. 1 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft by the Las Vegas Raiders. He quickly entered the spotlight for his polished public persona, built after a viral post‑game interview following Indiana’s Big Ten championship.

In the Raiders organization, minority owner Tom Brady has shared personal guidance, telling Mendoza he must be "the most competitive, the toughest mentally and physically, and lead by example". Mendoza also works with veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins, who downplays a formal mentorship role.

Mendoza’s rookie contract—four years, $57.27 million with a $38.11 million signing bonus—has not yet been signed, with reports indicating a dispute over the bonus payment schedule. The delay fuels speculation about the Raiders’ confidence in their first‑overall pick, especially after early OTA reports suggested development challenges. Fans have reacted to his FaceTime call with Brady at the NFL Combine, sparking mixed commentary online.