How projected No. 1 pick Fernando Mendoza follows his idol Tom Brady’s ‘methodologies’

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Fernando Mendoza has made it clear that his rise to the top of the 2026 NFL Draft class is rooted in discipline, and much of that comes from modeling his approach after Tom Brady.

The Indiana quarterback has often pointed to Brady as the blueprint for how to succeed without relying purely on physical tools.

From preparation to daily habits, Mendoza has leaned heavily into that mindset as he transformed into a national champion and projected No. 1 overall pick.

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Fernando Mendoza explains why Tom Brady is his ultimate role model

Speaking via Sports Illustrated, Mendoza outlined exactly what draws him to Brady.

“The perfect guy to look up to. Cerebral. He wasn’t the fastest, wasn’t the strongest; just super, super smart and a great leader, too,” Mendoza said.

That description mirrors how Mendoza has been evaluated throughout his own rise. He is not defined by elite athleticism, but by decision-making, leadership, and control of the game.

It is the same formula that helped Brady carve out a legendary career, and one Mendoza has clearly embraced.

Fernando Mendoza adopts Tom Brady’s TB12 lifestyle and habits

Brady’s influence on Mendoza goes beyond admiration and into daily routine.

“Mendoza became a TB12 disciple. He sleeps eight hours a night, minimum. He read the book that explains Brady’s methodologies.

“He can recite which foods [strawberries, seedless tomatoes] Brady avoids because he considers them inflammatory,” SI reported.