If you’re noticing a theme to the Raiders’ offseason so far, give yourself a big slap on the back.
For those of you who haven’t picked up on it, let’s make this abundantly clear.
Nearly everything the Raiders are doing is to create a safe haven for Fernando Mendoza, the Heisman Trophy-winning Indiana quarterback destined to land in Las Vegas as the top overall pick in next month’s draft.
Just call it Operation Fernando.
And it’s overseen by none other than Tom Brady, the Raiders’ minority owner and de facto president of football operations.
Yes, John Spytek, the general manager, is front and center in decision-making and shaping the Raiders roster.
He’s off to a brilliant start by maximizing the return on Maxx Crosby, who was traded to the Ravens for two first-round picks, and signing Ravens center Tyler Linderbaum, Vikings wide receiver Jalen Nailor, Colts edge rusher Kwity Paye Eagles linebacker Nakobe Dean, Packer linebacker Quay Walker, and resigning edge rusher Malcolm Koonce in the opening hours of free agency on Monday.
But Brady is right smack in the middle of everything, with Operation Fernando as his most important project.
“I mean, he’s the best ever to do it,” Spytek said at the NFL scouting combine. “So, I think whoever the quarterback is that’s playing for the Raiders has a unique opportunity to learn from the best.”
No one knows the quarterback spot better than the G.O.A.T himself, but it goes beyond the assistance Brady will lend Mendoza on the intricacies of playing the most important position in sports.
Source: California Post – Breaking California News, Photos & Videos
