Story perspectives

Diego Pavia Joins 2026 NFL Draft, Skips Agent

4/8/2026

Summary

Pavia Goes Agentless

Diego Pavia will enter the 2026 NFL Draft without an agent to keep his earnings intact.
He credits his Name, Image, and Likeness deals with preparing him for contract negotiations.
Pavia led Vanderbilt to a 10-3 season.
He finished second in the Heisman race.
The 2026 NFL Draft begins April 23 in Pittsburgh.

History

Historical Context

The NCAA's Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) policy, implemented in 2021, marked a significant shift from its long-standing amateurism model, which prohibited athlete compensation. This change followed California's 2019 Fair Pay to Play Act and the Supreme Court's NCAA v. Alston ruling, which criticized the NCAA's restrictions. As a result, athletes like Diego Pavia can now secure lucrative endorsement deals, reshaping the landscape of college sports.

1 of 2

Pavia Goes Agentless

Diego Pavia will enter the 2026 NFL Draft without an agent to keep his earnings intact.
He credits his Name, Image, and Likeness deals with preparing him for contract negotiations.
Pavia led Vanderbilt to a 10-3 season.
He finished second in the Heisman race.
The 2026 NFL Draft begins April 23 in Pittsburgh.

1 / 2