Future #1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza explains why he grew up idolizing Tom Brady

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Fernando Mendoza, the projected first overall pick in this year’s NFL Draft, has explained why Tom Brady was the quarterback he idolised growing up.

Mendoza is widely expected to be selected first by the Las Vegas Raiders, and his comments about Brady have drawn added attention given the quarterback’s connection to the franchise.

Brady, now a minority owner of the Raiders, continues to influence the organisation in different ways, even in retirement.

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Fernando Mendoza explains why Tom Brady inspired him​

Fernando Mendoza said his admiration for Tom Brady was shaped less by physical traits and more by preparation and mindset.

“As a child, I was always a huge Tom Brady fan,” Mendoza said.

He explained that Brady’s approach to preparation resonated with him early in his development.

“I read the TB12 book. I was always big on preparation, because like Tom, I’m not the biggest. I’m not the fastest. I’m not the strongest,” Mendoza said.

Mendoza added that Brady’s philosophy helped shape how he views the quarterback position.

“But the edge is in the intellect and the preparation. So I really appreciate him preaching that message from a young age,” Mendoza said.

Raiders draft position adds intrigue to Mendoza comments​

The Las Vegas Raiders currently hold the number one overall pick in this year’s NFL Draft and are widely expected to select Mendoza.

That scenario makes Mendoza’s comments especially notable, as Tom Brady is a minority owner of the Raiders following his transition into ownership after retiring as a player.

Mendoza also highlighted the mental demands of playing quarterback, echoing traits long associated with Brady.

“What’s really important about being a quarterback is being cerebral. Knowing where to go with the ball, knowing your checks,” Mendoza said.

If selected first overall, Mendoza would be joining an organisation partly owned by the player he grew up idolising, turning a childhood influence into a defining professional connection.

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