Full Breakdown
Diego Pavia’s NFL Draft Snub and Ravens Minicamp Tryout
4/28/2026, 5:16:59 AM
Undrafted Heisman Finalist Receives Ravens Minicamp Invitation
Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia, the 2025 Heisman Trophy runner-up, was not selected in the 2026 NFL Draft. Within 24 hours, the Baltimore Ravens announced a rookie-minicamp tryout for Pavia (May 1-3), positioning him as a potential third quarterback behind Lamar Jackson and Tyler Huntley.
Path to the Draft: College Success and Historical Context
Pavia began at New Mexico Military Institute, transferred to New Mexico State (2022-23), then to Vanderbilt (2024-25). He guided Vanderbilt to its first 10-win season, upset No. 1 Alabama, earned SEC Offensive Player of the Year, and became the first Heisman finalist since Jordan Lynch (2014) to go undrafted, according to most reports.
College Production and Measurables
In 2025 Pavia posted 3,539 passing yards, 29 passing TDs, 862 rushing yards and 10 rushing TDs while completing 70.6 % of his passes (8 INTs). Career totals include 10,255 passing yards, 88 TDs, 27 INTs, 3,098 rushing yards and 31 rushing TDs. At the NFL Combine he measured 5-foot-9 7/8 (officially listed at 6 ft), ran a 4.76-second 40-yard dash and weighed 207 lb; he is 24 years old.
Team and Analyst Reactions
The Ravens’ front office indicated the minicamp invite fills a developmental-quarterback slot, noting the roster already contains Jackson and Huntley. ESPN’s Adam Schefter described the opportunity as “good” given Baltimore’s lack of a third quarterback. Analyst Lance Zierlein called Pavia “a short, tough, productive quarterback who plays bigger than his measurables.” Vanderbilt head coach Clark Lea said, “What Diego has accomplished … is undeniable, and we expect to see him have a successful NFL career.”
Concerns Over Size, Arm Strength, and Off-Field Conduct
Scouts repeatedly flagged Pavia’s 5-foot-10 stature and perceived below-average arm strength as draft-day liabilities. A senior-year scouting director told NFL Network the “schtick gets old” after Pavia posted “F-ALL THE VOTERS” on social media following the Heisman ceremony. Dan Patrick asserted that Pavia “does not have a personality that I want as my backup quarterback.” Todd McShay publicly stated he “doesn’t think Diego Pavia can play quarterback in the NFL.”
Conflicting Reports on Historical Precedent
Most outlets cite Jordan Lynch (2014) as the last Heisman finalist to go undrafted, but a few sources (e.g., On3) claim Pavia is the first since 2003, creating a minor discrepancy in the historical record.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I realize his off-field has caused some concerns, but Diego Pavia deserved better than a minicamp tryout with the Ravens,” — Skip Bayless, Vanderbilt alum
- “I BELIEVE IN YOU MY MAN! Stay strong and don’t let up. Show them what time it is and never allow them to forget. Much Love & God bless you.” — Deion Sanders, former NFL star
- “Size, speed, style of play, personality. . You name it, all of it PERFECT for college, not necessarily the prototypical NFL prospect.” — Pat McAfee, ESPN analyst
- “Diego Pavia has a personality but he does not have a personality that I want as my backup quarterback. I don't think he's good enough to be a starter in the NFL,” — Dan Patrick, broadcaster
What Lies Ahead for Pavia
Pavia will compete at the Ravens’ minicamp against fellow UDFA quarterback Joe Fagnano. If he impresses, the team may sign him to the 90-man roster or practice squad; otherwise, other NFL clubs have expressed tentative interest, and alternative leagues such as the CFL or UFL remain options. The minicamp performance will determine whether Pavia secures an NFL contract or pursues a different professional path.
