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Tom Brady issues challenge to Fernando Mendoza amid hype on Raiders rookie
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- Tom Brady issues challenge to Fernando Mendoza amid hype on Raiders rookie
Tom Brady issues challenge to Fernando Mendoza amid hype on Raiders rookie appeared first on ClutchPoints . Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here .
Tom Brady wants to see Fernando Mendoza succeed as the franchise cornerstone of the Las Vegas Raiders .
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Brady has settled in as the Raiders' minority owner, while frequenting broadcasts as a commentator on FOX. Following an incredible career as a player, the Hall of Famer makes an attempt to bring Las Vegas back to serious relevance.
Mendoza seems to be the first major step in that direction. Las Vegas selected him with the first overall pick of the 2026 NFL Draft, recognizing his talents after he won the Heisman Trophy and led the Indiana Hoosiers to a perfect season and the national championship.
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Brady appeared as a guest on FOX Business, giving his thoughts on the upcoming season. He looks forward to seeing what Mendoza does on the field but wants him to earn his place as a young star in the league.
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"I love Fernando, but Fernando is like every other young rookie. He's got to go out there and earn it like everybody else," Brady said.
What lies ahead for Fernando Mendoza, Raiders
Fernando Mendoza has a lot of expectations after putting up remarkable performances to end his collegiate career. His time on the Raiders will present him challenges to deal with, something that Tom Brady hopes the rookie quarterback will prevail against.
Mendoza spent four years playing college football, three with the California Golden Bears and the fourth with the Indiana Hoosiers. The latter proved to be his actual peak, completing 273 passes for 3,535 yards and 41 touchdowns and six interceptions. He is also active on the ground, racking up 90 rushes for 276 yards and seven touchdowns.
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The Raiders will attempt to improve upon their 3–14 record from 2025, make the playoffs after a four-year absence, end their 23-year AFC West title drought, and put an end to two consecutive seasons with fewer than five wins. This season will begin with the team's sixth head coach since 2021, seeing Klint Kubiak lead the team for 2026 and beyond.
The Raiders' season will begin at home when they host the Miami Dolphins . Kickoff will take place on Sept. 13 at 4:25 p.m. ET.
Related: Analysts still have Raiders' Brock Bowers as top-2 tight end in NFL after sophomore slump
Related: What Raiders would demand in Fernando Mendoza trade, per ESPN analyst
