Fernando Mendoza Reveals The Advice Tom Brady Gave Him Ahead Of His Debut NFL Season, 'Best Serve..'

Tom Brady is one of the most renowned former NFL players. Many young players wait to take advice from him regarding the sport, and Fernando Mendoza is no different. Now, as he heads into his debut NFL season, Fernando revealed the advice Tom gave him. 

Fernando Mendoza shares the piece of ‘wisdom’ Tom Brady gave him

At the age of 22, Fernando Mendoza is all set to make his NFL debut with the Las Vegas Raiders. Speaking with People at the Time 100 Sports Gala on Thursday, July 16, 2026, he opened up about the advice he had received from NFL legend Tom Brady. For those unaware, Tom is a minority owner of Fernando’s team. 

Fernando revealed that although he thinks that he is personally in “uncharted territory,” he has several valuable mentors to guide him, including Tom Brady. He revealed that he is grateful for them all. Recalling how he asked Tom for advice, he said: 

“Tom’s given me a lot of advice — and I like to sometimes keep it close to the vest. However, the one thing that he always says is that, hey, you’re in your early 20s and making sure you do everything possible to be successful and, and to best serve your teammates and not let your teammates down.” 

Tom Brady also told Fernando that he needs to make decisions that will be in the best interests of his teammates. According to him, this is how he can become the best quarterback to help his team. In his words: 

“Making sure you're making all those decisions to the North Star and to best serve your teammates and to become the best quarterback you can become in order to help the team.” 

Fernando added that he and Tom Brady usually text each other here and there. The duo had even crossed paths on the day of his interview at Fanatics Fest for what he called a “great little catch-up.” 

Fernando Mendoza first talked to Tom Brady in April 2026, before the NFL Draft this year. Here, he was eventually picked first overall by the Las Vegas Raiders. The quarterback previously opened up about their conversation on The Dan Patrick Show. Recalling it, he said:

“It was fantastic. He gave me the message that he’s going to push me, and he’s not going to be all lovey-dovey. And if the Raiders draft me, he’s going to be a mentor and wants to pour into whatever quarterback the Raiders have, whether it’s me, whether they draft somebody else.”

It is worth mentioning that in June 2026, Fernando Mendoza grabbed a lot of attention after he called Tom “Mr. Brady” during a FaceTime call. To this, the seven-time Super Bowl champion corrected him by saying, “You can call me Tom - Mr. Brady is my dad.” Tom and Fernando’s conversation had been recorded on the Raiders’ Instagram. In the clip, Tom could also be heard giving Fernando some words of encouragement. He said, “Just keep being yourself, man. You're doing a great job.” 

Fernando Mendoza wins the ESPY for Best Men’s College Athlete 

It is safe to say that Fernando Mendoza is having a great year so far. Not only did he recently become the No. 1 overall pick for the Las Vegas Raiders, but now he is also an ESPY winner. He took home the trophy for Best College Athlete in Men's Sports at ESPN’s ESPY Awards in New York City on Wednesday, July 15, 2026. Notably, in the 2025 season, Fernando played a significant role for the Hoosiers, guiding Indiana to its first national championship and undefeated season. 

During his acceptance speech, he thanked his family, coaches, the Hoosier nation, and all of his teammates. Fernando also did not forget to give a shoutout to his new NFL team, ending his speech by saying, “God bless. Go Raiders. Thank you, guys.” 

What are your thoughts on Fernando Mendoza’s statements about the advice he received from Tom Brady? Let us know. 

Photos Credit: Fernando Mendoza/IG, Las Vegas Raiders/IG

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