After Going Undrafted, Diego Pavia Finally Has Next Step in NFL Career. Here’s What to Know.
Sports Illustrated • • sports
Key Points:
- Diego Pavia, a 2026 Heisman Trophy finalist, has accepted an invitation to the Baltimore Ravens' rookie minicamp despite going undrafted, aiming to earn a spot on the roster or practice squad.
- Pavia's journey is notable as he received no Division I football scholarship offers out of high school, played six seasons of college football across junior college, New Mexico State, and Vanderbilt, and led Vanderbilt to its first 10-win season.
- In 2025, Pavia posted career highs in passing yards, completion percentage, touchdowns, and passer rating, leading the SEC in several categories and becoming a Heisman finalist.
- Pavia made headlines for initially criticizing Heisman voters after finishing second but later apologized, attributing his comments to competitive frustration.
- He is open to contributing in versatile ways at the NFL level, including non-traditional roles similar to Taysom Hill, emphasizing his willingness to do whatever it takes to help his team win.
