Deion Sanders Sends Message to Diego Pavia As Heisman Finalist Remains Unsigned
Sports Illustrated • • sports
Key Points:
- Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia went undrafted in the NFL draft, becoming the first Heisman Trophy finalist since 2014 to not be selected by any team.
- Despite the disappointment, Pavia received public support from notable figures like Colorado coach Deion Sanders and his son Deion Jr., who encouraged him to persevere.
- Pavia's height (just under 5’10”) and concerns about his playing style were cited as likely reasons for teams passing on him, as he would be the shortest starting quarterback in the NFL if drafted.
- Draft expert Todd McShay expressed doubts about Pavia's ability to succeed as an NFL quarterback, highlighting limitations in his passing game during evaluations.
- Although Pavia had not signed with a team immediately after the draft, he accepted an invitation to the Baltimore Ravens' rookie minicamp, keeping his professional prospects alive.
