“Tom Brady loves him,” a source revealed, referring to quarterback Fernando Mendoza from Indiana, who is projected to be selected by the Las Vegas Raiders in the upcoming NFL draft.
This endorsement from Brady, who is set to participate in the Fanatics Flag Football Classic on March 21, 2026, adds weight to Mendoza’s prospects. The event marks Brady’s first time back on a football field since his retirement in 2023.
The Fanatics Flag Football Classic was originally scheduled to take place in Saudi Arabia but was relocated to California amid rising tensions in the Middle East. This change has allowed Brady to showcase his support for the next generation of quarterbacks.
In a related development, Maxx Crosby, a prominent player for the Raiders, was recently traded to the Baltimore Ravens. The trade involved two first-round picks in the 2026 and 2027 NFL Drafts, a move that reflects the Ravens’ strategy to bolster their roster.
Crosby, who signed a three-year, $106.5 million extension with the Raiders, has been a standout player, earning Pro Bowl honors every season since 2021. Over his seven seasons, he has compiled impressive statistics, including 69.5 sacks, 133 tackles for loss, and 164 quarterback hits.
However, Crosby expressed frustration with the Raiders’ decision to shut him down for the final two games of the previous season. “Crosby reportedly left the team’s facilities furious over the decision,” sources indicated.
His desire to play for a championship contender reportedly played a major role in the trade to the Ravens, who have qualified for the postseason five times since 2019. This move signals a shift in Crosby’s career aspirations as he seeks to compete at the highest level.
As the NFL draft approaches, all eyes will be on Mendoza and the Raiders, especially with Brady’s backing. The implications of these trades and endorsements could reshape the landscape of the league in the coming seasons.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding further developments in the draft and player movements, but the excitement surrounding Brady’s involvement continues to grow.
