Raiders' Fernando Mendoza Has Partnered With OpenAI
The team's No. 1 draft pick launched a new promotional campaign for ChatGPT on October 2.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Football
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Las Vegas Raiders star Fernando Mendoza has officially partnered with OpenAI to promote the chatbot ChatGPT. The 22-year-old quarterback released a promotional video on LinkedIn featuring the software.
Why it matters
The partnership follows ongoing social media chatter where fans frequently compared the quarterback's speaking style to the AI-driven chatbot. Mendoza reportedly decided to pursue the deal after those recurring comparisons became a viral talking point.
The 22-year-old quarterback holds the position of the No. 1 overall NFL draft pick. While his commercial portfolio includes partnerships with State Farm, U.S. Bank, and Taco Bell, the financial details of his agreement with OpenAI are not public.
The players
Fernando Mendoza
The Las Vegas Raiders quarterback and No. 1 overall NFL draft pick.
OpenAI
The artificial intelligence research organization that developed ChatGPT.
Las Vegas Raiders
The professional football team based in the Las Vegas Valley.
The details
Mendoza claims he uses ChatGPT to organize daily meal plans, manage his busy schedule, and draft communications for his family. He maintains a nonprofit called the Mendoza Family Fund alongside his professional commitments in the valley. The Raiders quarterback, who trains at the Henderson facility, continues to balance his training regimen with these off-field brand engagements.
Timeline
September 2026: Mendoza discussed his software usage in a GQ interview.
October 2, 2026: The official promotional advertisement for ChatGPT was released.
Beyond the Strip
This deal echoes the 2024 NFL player commercial endorsement trend where athletes increasingly pivot from traditional retail brands toward software and digital platforms. The partnership marks a notable departure from Mendoza's existing endorsements with consumer-facing companies like Taco Bell.
Fans in Las Vegas may notice increased visibility for the chatbot in local media campaigns following the October launch. The athlete continues to maintain his nonprofit work in the valley, which remains unaffected by his new technology partnership.
The takeaway
Mendoza is utilizing the software to handle his personal scheduling and meal planning. Local fans can continue to monitor his professional performance as he balances these high-profile media obligations with his role on the Raiders roster.
Further reading
For more on the local team's activity off the field, visit Football.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Las Vegas Review-Journal.
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