$2.6 million college football QB praises Tom Brady ahead of NFL draft

The 2025 college football season concluded on January 19 with Indiana's victory over Miami in the College Football Playoff National Championship at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, Florida. Indiana's quarterback, Fernando Mendoza, played a key role in the team's championship run, earning several prestigious accolades including the Heisman Trophy, Maxwell Award, Walter Camp Award, Davey O'Brien Award, and consensus All-America honors. Mendoza completed the season with 3,535 passing yards, 41 touchdowns, and six interceptions, in addition to 276 rushing yards and seven touchdowns.

NFL legend and Las Vegas Raiders minority owner Tom Brady was present at the championship game. Mendoza is projected to be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, with the Raiders holding the top selection barring any trades. Mendoza has cited Brady as a significant influence on his career, praising Brady's leadership and preparation.

Brady, who began his career as a backup at Michigan before becoming a starter, was drafted