Why Fernando Mendoza feels ‘stars are aligning’ after Tom Brady’s Raiders select him with No. 1 pick

From coaching hires to quarterback evaluations, Brady has been deeply involved in the franchise’s decision-making, making Mendoza’s arrival part of a much bigger plan rather than a standalone move.

How Tom Brady’s presence could shape Mendoza’s rookie year

The impact of Brady’s presence goes beyond the front office and into Mendoza’s day-to-day development as a quarterback.

Brady is not a distant figure in this setup. He has already established himself as an active voice in football decisions and a direct resource for young quarterbacks, offering guidance built on two decades of elite-level experience.

That matters for a rookie stepping into a system that demands precision, discipline, and consistency. Brady’s approach to mentorship is known to be demanding, focused on preparation, film study, and accountability rather than empty encouragement.

Quarterbacks who have had access to experienced mentors often develop faster, whether it is refining decision-making, understanding defenses, or simply learning how to handle the pressure that comes with the position.

For Mendoza, the opportunity is clear. He’s not just learning a new offense or adjusting to the NFL. He is doing it with one of the most accomplished quarterbacks in league history, closely tied to the process.

Read more:

• Tom Brady issues a solid message to Fernando Mendoza and rest of Day 1 NFL rookies
• How anonymous NFL scouts are comparing Fernando Mendoza to recent No. 1 picks
• Why NFL scouts believe the 2026 QB class drops off sharply after Fernando Mendoza