Tom Brady sends strong message on Raiders rookie Fernando Mendoza while revealing surprise WWE ambitions | NFL News
The excitement around Fernando Mendoza has been growing ever since the Las Vegas Raiders made him the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Many fans already see him as the team’s future, but minority owner Tom Brady believes expectations should remain realistic as the rookie prepares for his first NFL season.Brady also made headlines for a very different reason this week. While discussing football and life after retirement, the seven time Super Bowl champion revealed that he would be open to stepping into a WWE ring one day, adding another surprising chapter to his post playing career.
Tom Brady says Fernando Mendoza must earn his place despite growing expectations
Brady recently appeared on Fox Business, where he was asked about Mendoza and the attention surrounding the young quarterback. Instead of adding to the excitement, Brady stressed that success in the NFL is never guaranteed, regardless of where a player is drafted.“I love Fernando, but Fernando is like every other young rookie. He’s got to go out there and earn it like everybody else. And I am excited about the opportunity for our team to have him as a first overall pick. He has done a lot of hard work to get to this point.”Brady explained that the biggest challenge for every rookie begins after the draft. According to him, the league quickly tests a player’s mindset, work ethic and ability to respond when things do not go as planned.“But at the same time, like everyone at their age, none of these young players, rookies, have ever had a meaningful snap in the NFL. Their career and journey will be determined by the work they put in, by adversities that they overcome, by the kind of teammate, team player they are.”The comments come as the Raiders continue to decide how quickly Mendoza should take over the starting job. Reports have suggested veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins could begin the season as the starter while Mendoza develops behind him. However, some NFL analysts believe the rookie should start sooner if he proves to be the better option during training camp and preseason.Regardless of when Mendoza makes his debut, Brady’s message was clear. Draft position creates opportunity, but long term success depends on performance, consistency and leadership inside the locker room.
Brady opens up about WWE ambitions after retirement
Away from football, Brady grabbed attention during Fanatics Fest in New York while appearing on Cody Rhodes’ live podcast. The former quarterback admitted that retirement has made him curious about trying something completely different, including a possible WWE appearance.“I feel like since I’m retired from football, I have an opportunity to go out there and still showcase that I’m a little bit of an athlete. You know, my boy Gronk has done it. I’ve seen Logan Paul do it. I think I could get in there for at least one match, right?”Brady followed that up with another playful message directed at WWE President Nick Khan.“Come on Nick [Khan]. Make it happen!”The remarks surprised many because Brady had previously criticized professional wrestling, calling it “cute” and “scripted” earlier this year. Those comments sparked responses from WWE stars including Oba Femi, Paul Heyman and Logan Paul, who defended the physical demands of the sport.Whether a WWE match ever happens remains uncertain, but Brady continues to show that retirement has not slowed him down. As he helps shape the Raiders’ future behind the scenes, he is also keeping fans guessing about what challenge he might take on next.
