Tom Brady urges patience with Raiders rookie Fernando Mendoza

Tom Brady has cautioned against rushing rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza into the starting lineup for the Las Vegas Raiders, drawing on his own experience of sitting behind Drew Bledsoe early in his career. The Raiders selected Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick after he led Indiana to a national championship.

Speaking to Fox Business, Brady emphasised that Mendoza must earn the role through hard work and overcoming adversity, not because of his draft status. The seven-time Super Bowl champion and Raiders co-owner said: 'I love Fernando, but Fernando is like every other young rookie. He's got to go out there and earn it like everybody else.'

The Raiders have also signed veteran Kirk Cousins to serve as a bridge starter, allowing Mendoza time to develop. Cousins is widely expected to begin the season under centre and could hold the job for the entire campaign if results follow.

Why Patience Matters

• Brady sat for more than a season behind Bledsoe before taking over the Patriots.
• Mendoza was named Best College Athlete (Men's Sports) at the 2026 ESPYs.
• Cousins, in his late 30s, is known for diligent film study and has impressed Mendoza.
• NBC Sports' Mike Florio noted that if Mendoza clearly outplays Cousins in practice, pressure from stars like Maxx Crosby could force an early change.

Mendoza has kept his conversations with Brady private but praised Cousins' dedication off the field. The Raiders' plan mirrors the approach that allowed Brady to learn before thriving, but internal expectations and team performance could accelerate the timeline.

As the preseason approaches, all eyes will be on how Mendoza handles his first NFL snaps and whether the Raiders stick to their patient blueprint or bow to competitive pressure.