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NFL·June 19, 2026 03:01 AM ET

Mendoza's Combine Icebreaker: A Casual Hello to Tom Brady

Raiders' top pick recalls greeting Brady.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Jun 191 min read
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Fernando Mendoza’s first meeting with the Raiders at combine: “What’s up, Mr. Brady? How are you doing?” https://t.co/IW

What happened: Fernando Mendoza, taken by the Las Vegas Raiders, recounted his first interaction with the franchise at the scouting combine — opening with a relaxed "What's up, Mr. Brady? How are you doing?" to the team's minority owner. The exchange, surfaced via @AdamSchefter, captures the quarterback's loose demeanor during the pre-draft process.

Why it matters: Personality and poise are scrutinized as closely as arm talent for incoming quarterbacks, and small moments like this shape how a locker room and front office read a young passer. For the same Fernando Mendoza the Raiders drafted, the anecdote reinforces the confident profile that drove his draft stock.

What to watch: Mendoza enters the Raiders' quarterback room alongside the offseason competition as Las Vegas builds toward the 2026 season. Watch how the rookie handles his first full slate of team activities.

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