The Las Vegas Raiders began linking Fernando Mendoza to Tom Brady long before the 2026 NFL Draft. Now, a recently revealed video has captured a curious moment between the young quarterback and the Patriots legend during the NFL Combine.

It all happened when Mendoza had the opportunity to speak over the phone with Brady, a current minority co-owner of the Raiders and one of the most influential figures within the organization. Intending to show respect, the quarterback addressed him as “Mr. Brady.” However, the seven-time Super Bowl champion was quick to respond with humor, immediately correcting him by saying that “Mr. Brady” was his father—a moment that quickly caught the attention of fans.

The conversation took place during the NFL Combine held in Indianapolis in early March. Although Mendoza decided not to throw during the official drills and waited for Indiana’s Pro Day to showcase his arm, he had already captured the Raiders’ interest.

Brady and other members of the franchise closely followed the development of the quarterback, who was coming off leading Indiana to a historic season that culminated in the Hoosiers’ first-ever national championship after defeating Miami.

Now, Mendoza faces the biggest challenge of his career. The young passer joins an organization starved for results, with a fanbase that has spent years waiting for the Raiders to return to the NFL elite. The franchise has only reached the playoffs twice since 2002, so expectations for this new project are massive.

Fernando Mendoza gets a very special gift that reminds him of his Cuban roots

However, the path to the starting job will not be easy. Mendoza will have to compete with Kirk Cousins, a veteran quarterback and four-time Pro Bowler who joined the team during free agency following his departure from the Atlanta Falcons.

With Cousins and other experienced players in the locker room, the Raiders boast a mix of youth and experience. But if there is one thing Mendoza already has clear after that phone call, it’s this: Tom Brady does not want to be called “Mr. Brady.”