Fernando Mendoza Reveals What Tom Brady Told Him Ahead of 2026 NFL Draft

Fernando Mendoza on Dec. 6, 2025 in Indiana
Credit: Michael Reaves/Getty

"And if the Raiders draft me, he's going to be a mentor and wants to pour into whatever quarterback the Raiders have, whether it's me, whether they draft somebody else," the Heisman Trophy winner shared, noting the Raiders just signed 37-year-old quarterback Kirk Cousins to a contract.

"If I'm lucky enough to go to the Raiders, I think it'll be a great opportunity to learn from someone who has had so much success over the years, and who I think has a very similar playing style as me," said Mendoza, who revealed he's studied Cousins' style of play specifically.

Leading up to Thursday's draft, Mendoza revealed he won't be there in person because he wants to watch with his mom, who has multiple sclerosis.

"My mom really wanted to do it at home and so did my parents, it’s a lot easier for us, especially with the family situation," he told Rich Eisen on SportsCenter on Monday, April 20.

“I wanted to stay and make the memory of everyone who poured into my football journey,” the former Indiana quarterback said. “Mentors, coaches, family, friends. I want to share that moment with all of them it’s gonna be the best memory that I can make rather than limit it to 10 or 12 people in Pittsburgh.”

Follow your favorite athletes on and off the field with PEOPLE's free sports newsletter — sign up now!

In December 2025, Mendoza told PEOPLE how his mom has impacted life and football career. “It's that unwavering optimism that she gives me that really helps me go through my day,” Mendoza, who works with the National MS Society on behalf of his mom, said. “And she's so special to me. And to see her is such an inspiration to me. I'm so lucky to have someone like that in my life.”

This year's NFL draft runs through Saturday, April 25, in Pittsburgh.

Read the original article on People