A Collector’s Moment at Fanatics Fest
At Fanatics Fest in New York, Tom Brady lifted a one‑of‑a‑kind autographed rookie card that bears the name of Fernando Mendoza, the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. The card, graded as a 1/1, was placed on a sleek pedestal that attracted the attention of collectors and fans alike.
Brady used the moment to speak about Mendoza’s work ethic, family values and the promise he shows as a future Raider. “Mendoza’s dedication is something I respect,” Brady said, adding that he sees a bright future for the player in Oakland’s storied franchise.
The ceremony also served as a showcase for CardVault, the collection platform founded by Brady that buys, sells, trades and grades sports memorabilia. With more than a dozen U.S. locations, including outlets in San Francisco and Sacramento, CardVault has become a hub for enthusiasts seeking authenticated pieces.
As a minority owner of the Raiders, Brady has pledged to help restore a winning culture to the team. His involvement with Mendoza is part of a broader vision that blends on‑field ambition with off‑field community building.
Mendoza’s own résumé is already impressive. He captured the Heisman Trophy last season and led Indiana to a national championship, cementing his status as one of college football’s brightest talents. The rookie card, therefore, represents both a personal milestone and a symbolic bridge between college stardom and professional expectations.
The event also featured a surprise appearance by Topps, the historic card manufacturer, underscoring the continued partnership between emerging talent and established brands in the sports memorabilia ecosystem.