Fernando Mendoza’s future decision is official: the announcement Tom Brady and the Raiders were waiting for

The Las Vegas Raiders now have clarity heading into the 2026 NFL Draft. Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza has officially declared for the NFL, ending months of speculation about who will take the top pick.

Mendoza shared the news on Friday through a video on Instagram and LinkedIn, reflecting on his journey.

“Coming to Indiana was a leap of faith, a leap that led me to going 16-0 with my boys and a national championship,” he said.

“With trust in my foundation and gratitude for every person that has helped me reach this moment, I’m ready to take the next step. My LinkedIn status is now, ‘Open to work,’ and I’m officially declaring for the 2026 NFL Draft.”

The quarterback’s college career was nothing short of historic. He guided the Hoosiers to a perfect 16-0 record, securing Indiana’s first national championship in football.

Along the way, Mendoza earned the Heisman Trophy, the Walter Camp Award, and became one of the most decorated players in recent college football history.

On the field, he threw for 3,535 yards with 41 touchdowns and added seven rushing scores. His iconic fourth-down touchdown in the national title game against Miami sealed a season for the ages.

Raiders executives witness Mendoza’s dominance

Tom Brady, in his role as a Raiders minority owner, attended the College Football Playoff National Championship along with owner Mark Davis and general manager John Spytek. ESPN analyst Jordan Rodgers suggested that Brady likely sees parts of his own playing style in Mendoza‘s approach to the game.

Mendoza‘s declaration clears the way for Las Vegas to move forward with what appears to be an almost certain first overall selection.

With the draft set to take place April 23 in Pittsburgh, the Raiders can now focus fully on preparing to welcome one of college football’s most accomplished quarterbacks into the NFL.

From an undefeated season to stepping into the professional spotlight, Mendoza‘s choice marks a major milestone-for him, the Raiders, and fans anticipating the next chapter of his football career.