Full Breakdown
Undrafted Heisman Finalist Diego Pavia Invited to Ravens Rookie Minicamp
4/27/2026, 4:16:07 AM
Event Overview
Diego Pavia, a 24-year-old quarterback who played at New Mexico State and Vanderbilt, accepted an invitation to the Baltimore Ravens rookie minicamp scheduled for next weekend. The invitation, reported by ESPN reporter Adam Schefter, follows Pavia’s omission from the 2026 NFL Draft.
College Background
Pavia was a four-year starter and a 2025 Heisman Trophy finalist. At Vanderbilt he posted an SEC-best 70.6 % completion rate, 29 passing touchdowns to eight interceptions, and added 862 rushing yards with ten rushing touchdowns. At New Mexico State in 2023 he recorded 2,673 passing yards, 26 passing touchdowns, nine interceptions, 923 rushing yards and seven rushing touchdowns. His career totals include 10,255 passing yards, 88 passing touchdowns, 27 interceptions, 3,098 rushing yards and 31 rushing touchdowns. He led Vanderbilt to a win over No. 1 Alabama on Oct 5, 2024. Despite these achievements, he was not selected in the 2026 draft, becoming the first Heisman finalist undrafted since Jordan Lynch in 2014.
Statistical Snapshot
Across 53 college games Pavia completed 62.2 % of his passes. He amassed 10,255 passing yards and 88 touchdowns, while rushing for 3,098 yards and 31 touchdowns. His 2025 SEC season featured a 70.6 % completion rate, 29 passing touchdowns and eight interceptions.
Official Reactions
The Baltimore Ravens formally extended the minicamp invitation, indicating interest in evaluating Pavia’s dual-threat abilities. Colorado head coach Deion Sanders publicly encouraged the quarterback on X, expressing confidence and urging him to showcase his talent. The Ravens organization has not issued additional comments.
Criticism & Controversy
Analysts cited Pavia’s “history of creating controversy” and “brash persona” as factors that likely deterred teams from drafting him. Some scouts expressed concerns that off-field behavior could affect team chemistry and public perception.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Diego Pavia is getting a chance to make a positive impression.” — NBC Sports
- “In doing so, he became the first Heisman finalist to go undrafted since Jordan Lynch of Northern Illinois in 2014, who did get a camp invite from the Chicago Bears but was cut during the preseason and never recorded an NFL snap.” — NBC Sports
- “I BELIEVE IN YOU MY MAN! Stay strong and don’t let up,” — Deion Sanders, Head Coach, Colorado Buffaloes
- “Show them what time it is and never allow them to forget. Much Love & God bless you. #PRIME.” — Deion Sanders, Head Coach, Colorado Buffaloes
Implications
Pavia will compete with Lamar Jackson and Tyler Huntley during the minicamp. A strong showing could earn him a roster spot or practice-squad role, while a weak performance may leave him a free agent. His progress may influence how NFL teams evaluate productive college quarterbacks who carry off-field concerns.
