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Fernando Mendoza's mom Elsa shares new health update ahead of NFL Draft; Raiders, Tom Brady involved
Fernando Mendoza, who led the Indiana Hoosiers to the championship, is expected to be selected first overall by Las Vegas
Fernando Mendoza, who led the Indiana Hoosiers to the championship, is expected to be selected first overall by Las Vegas when the NFL Draft begins on Thursday. The Raiders have the first pick followed in order by the New York Jets, Arizona Cardinals, Tennessee Titans, New York Giants and Cleveland Browns. Klint Kubiak and co's search for a top quarterback could end tonight, months after they went 3-14 in the last season.
As Mendoza prepares for a life-changing NFL Draft night, the spotlight has shifted beyond football - toward a deeply personal story that has defined his journey.
A family fight behind the scenes
At the heart of Mendoza’s rise is his mother, Elsa, who has been battling Multiple Sclerosis (MS), a chronic autoimmune disease that has left her in a wheelchair. Despite the challenges, she continues to attend his games and remains a constant presence in his life, with the family set to watch the draft together from their home in Florida.
Emotional announcement ahead of draft
Just hours before the draft, Mendoza shared a heartfelt video announcing a new initiative tied to his family’s experience. “My mom is my light; she is my why,” he began.
The video then featured Elsa, who said: “My name is Elsa Mendoza, and I have Multiple Sclerosis. But it definitely does not define who I am, and I truly believe together, we can form a future without MS.”
Fernando followed with:“She taught me to be optimistic, stay resilient, and be myself.”
Launch of the Mendoza Family Fund
The announcement also introduced a new effort aimed at supporting others facing similar challenges.
“Today, we're proud to announce the launch of the Mendoza Family Fund,” said Fernando.His father added: “We created the Mendoza Family Fund in partnership with the National MS Society to help families like ours.”
Elsa later reinforced the purpose behind the initiative: “We are not just fighting for our family. We are fighting for so many others... This is about turning hope into action... And I believe, with all my heart, we will make a difference.”
Fernando closed with a message that summed up the family’s mission: “This is about legacy, hope, and community.”
Brilliant stats and Tom Brady link
Mendoza, winner of the Heisman Trophy as college football's top player, led the Hoosiers to an unbeaten campaign and their first national crown.
He completed 273 of 379 passes for 3,535 yards and 41 touchdowns with only six interceptions while running 90 times for 276 yards and seven touchdowns.
Mendoza has spoken with Raiders part-owner Tom Brady, winner of a record seven Super Bowls as an NFL quarterback.
"He has mentioned that whatever quarterback they select... he is going to pour into them and give them advice," Mendoza said. "So I'm looking forward to that if I get selected to the Raiders."
