Fernando Mendoza Teases New Favorite NFL Landing Spot
This article was originally published on Total Pro Sports.
Fernando Mendoza is focused on the NFL Draft. The Indiana quarterback usually talks about his training and preparation. However, on Friday, he shared a few hints about where he might want to play in the future.
Mendoza appeared on The Pat McAfee Show and spoke about his football plans. He talked about the offensive systems he studies and the coaches he respects. One coach, in particular, stood out during the conversation.
The projected No. 1 overall pick spoke very positively about Klint Kubiak. Mendoza said he really likes the style and structure of Kubiak’s offense. His comments quickly gained attention around the league.
Fernando Mendoza: Familiar System, Clear Fit
Mendoza told McAfee that he is already familiar with parts of Kubiak’s offensive system. He said Indiana used a similar style during his college career. Moreover, he mentioned outside zone running plays, play-action passes, and bootleg plays as examples.
“We actually had a little bit of a Kubiak, kind of McVay system,” Mendoza said.
Mendoza said Kubiak’s success with quarterbacks is a big reason he respects him. He pointed to Sam Darnold’s recent improvement under that coaching style and said it impressed him.
Fernando Mendoza says on @TheHerd that he was a huge fan of Tom Brady growing up:
“I read the TB12 book. I was always big on preparation. Because, like Tom, I’m not the biggest, I’m not the fastest, I’m not the strongest. But the edge is in the intellect and preparation.” https://t.co/4VogMUSIaJ pic.twitter.com/28IDsgpH2m
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) February 6, 2026
The young quarterback also showed strong football knowledge. He talked about details that many players his age do not focus on. Mendoza said he studied Kubiak’s offensive system long before any draft rumors started. His comments showed how closely he follows the NFL.
Mendoza used real teams as examples, mentioning the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots, who are playing in Super Bowl LX. He said both teams rebuilt quickly by using the right system and good planning.
The Heisman Trophy winner also spoke about Tom Brady, who now owns a minority stake in the Las Vegas Raiders. Mendoza told Colin Cowherd that he admires Brady’s discipline and work ethic.
He said, “I read the TB12 book. I was always big on preparation. Because, like Tom, I’m not the biggest, I’m not the fastest, I’m not the strongest. But the edge is in the intellect and preparation.”
The Raiders hold the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, and many expect them to choose a quarterback. Mendoza’s praise for Kubiak and Brady has increased speculation about a possible connection.
Mendoza says he is staying focused on his development and the draft process. However, his comments suggest he may already have a preferred destination. Las Vegas needs a long-term quarterback, and Mendoza fits that role. He understands the type of offense the team wants to run and respects its leadership.
For now, Mendoza is preparing for workouts, interviews, and draft day. His future is still uncertain, but he looks ready for the next step.
