Tom Brady helped the Raiders decide on their new quarterback

The Las Vegas Raiders didn't just rely on their own scouts when making the biggest decision of the 2026 NFL Draft. General manager John Spytek revealed this week that Tom Brady, now retired but still deeply involved in football conversations, gave the team valuable input on their top selection-Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza. While Brady holds no official role with the Raiders, his perspective on quarterback development and poise under pressure apparently carried weight in the war room.

Mendoza, chosen with the No. 1 overall pick, is stepping into a franchise eager for stability at quarterback. At Indiana, he stood out for his mobility, quick decision-making, and leadership during a breakout junior season. But Spytek said what sealed the deal wasn't just the tape-it was feedback from seasoned evaluators like Brady, who watched Mendoza closely during pre-draft workouts and interviews. "Tom's seen every kind of quarterback there is," Spytek said. "His take on Fernando's mental processing and ability to handle pressure was really telling."

Since the draft, Mendoza has wasted no time embracing his new role. In his first public comments as a Raider, he pointed to the team's long-standing connection with Hispanic fans, calling it "one of the most passionate and loyal communities in football." As a proud Cuban American, he said he feels a responsibility to represent that group on and off the field. "This isn't just about football for me," Mendoza said. "It's about showing kids who look like me that they belong in this league too."

The Raiders officially assigned Mendoza jersey number 10, a symbolic break from recent past quarterbacks and a nod to his college number. The choice has already sparked excitement among fans, many of whom see the pick as the start of a new era. Social media lit up with support from Latino fan groups, who've long viewed the Raiders as a team that embraces cultural identity.

Brady's involvement, while informal, underscores a growing trend of retired stars staying engaged in player development and team strategy. Though he's focused on broadcasting and his fitness brand, Brady has made no secret of his interest in front-office work down the line. His influence on Mendoza's evaluation won't come with a title, but it may still have a lasting impact.

For now, the spotlight is firmly on Mendoza. He'll face the usual rookie challenges-learning a new playbook, adjusting to NFL speed, and living up to sky-high expectations. But with support from unexpected corners and a community already rallying behind him, he's not starting from zero.

The Raiders haven't had a true franchise quarterback since Derek Carr's peak years. Whether Mendoza becomes that next cornerstone remains to be seen. But with early backing from legends and a fanbase hungry for connection, his journey is already about more than just stats and wins.