INDIANAPOLIS — Top quarterback prospect Fernando Mendoza continued to fuel discussion around the 2026 NFL Draft this weekend at the NFL Scouting Combine, where he offered insights into his formal interview with the Las Vegas Raiders, who hold the No. 1 overall pick.
Mendoza, the 2025 Heisman Trophy winner and 2026 College Football Playoff National Champion with Indiana, described his meeting with the Raiders as “fantastic,” saying the team’s coaching staff put him through a detailed and thoughtful session.
“I was lucky enough to have a formal interview with the Las Vegas Raiders,” Mendoza said. “It was a fantastic interview. The coaching staff was in there. We went over some of my previous plays, and we drew up plays on the board.”
Despite the strong expectations surrounding his draft stock, Mendoza was clear that nothing is certain until draft day.
“I know they have the No. 1 pick, but anything can happen in the draft,” he said. “I’m excited for the opportunity, and whatever team drafts me, I’m going to give everything I’ve got.”
A memorable moment from the interview came when Mendoza walked in and briefly spoke with Tom Brady, the seven-time Super Bowl champion and minority owner of the Raiders, over the phone.
“That was very special to me,” Mendoza said. “I look forward to meeting him in person, hopefully one day and learn from him.”
Mendoza went on to express admiration for Brady’s accomplishments and the potential mentorship he could receive if he lands in Las Vegas:
“Who hasn’t admired Tom Brady? He has more Super Bowl rings than anybody. That opportunity would be fantastic and meaningful,” he added.
Earlier in the pre-draft process, Mendoza also attracted attention for his humble response when asked what he would say to a team that didn’t select him at No. 1 — referencing Brady’s legendary status as the 199th pick in the 2000 NFL Draft.
Beyond his interview with the Raiders, Mendoza opted to forgo on-field workouts in favor of showcasing his skill set at Indiana’s pro day in April.
As the draft approaches, teams around the league continue to evaluate Mendoza’s blend of leadership, accuracy and playmaking ability — qualities that have made him a frequent fixture atop mock draft boards and a leading candidate for the No. 1 pick.