Full Breakdown
Ravens Sign Heisman Runner-Up Diego Pavia to Three-Year Deal
4/29/2026, 6:18:57 AM
The Signing: Core Details
- Who: Diego Pavia, former Vanderbilt quarterback and 2025 Heisman Trophy runner-up.
- What: Signed a three-year contract as an undrafted free agent.
- When: April 28, 2026, following the NFL Draft.
- Where: Baltimore Ravens (NFL).
- How: The Ravens bypassed the scheduled rookie minicamp tryout and placed Pavia directly on the 90-man roster.
Background & Context
Pavia guided Vanderbilt to a 10-3 record in 2025, the program’s first double-digit win season, earning SEC Offensive Player of the Year, the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award, and a spot as the Heisman Trophy runner-up to Fernando Mendoza. He became the first Heisman finalist to go undrafted since Jordan Lynch (2014) and the first Heisman runner-up undrafted since Brad Banks (2003).
The Ravens had already added UConn quarterback Joe Fagnano, also as a three-year undrafted free agent, creating a quarterback group that now includes two-time MVP Lamar Jackson and backup Tyler “Snoop” Huntley.
Data & Statistics
- 2025 college production: 3,539 passing yards, 29 passing TDs, 8 INTs, 70.6 % completion, 170.4 passer rating; 862 rushing yards, 10 rushing TDs.
- Physical measurements: Listed at 5-10; measured 5-9 7/8 at the NFL Combine, making him sub-6-foot.
- Joe Fagnano (UConn): 3,448 passing yards, 28 TDs, 1 INT, 69 % completion; 223 rushing yards, 4 rushing TDs.
- Ravens QB depth: Lamar Jackson (starter), Tyler Huntley (backup), Pavia and Fagnano competing for the third-string spot.
Official Statements & Responses
The Ravens announced the signings, noting that the two developmental quarterbacks join the 90-man roster ahead of the offseason program and rookie minicamp (May 1-3). Vanderbilt head coach Clark Lea said the university “has confidence in Diego’s NFL future” and praised his “impact beyond his performance on the field.”
Criticism & Opposition
Analysts flagged concerns about Pavia’s size and whether his dual-threat style will translate to the NFL. His post-draft social-media posts, including a profanity-laden nightclub photo, were described as “cocky” and potentially damaging to his perception. Some observers compared his maturity level to former Heisman winner Johnny Manziel, questioning his readiness for a professional environment.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Height discrepancy: Vanderbilt listed Pavia at 6-0, while the Combine measured 5-9 7/8.
- Contract details: Only the three-year length was disclosed; salary and guarantees remain unknown.
- Scheme fit: The Ravens have not publicly detailed how Pavia’s skill set aligns with their offensive system.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Yeah, my size has been doubted my whole life,” — Diego Pavia, via AL.com
- “I feel like the only thing the NFL cares about is can you win, and I view myself as a winner.” — Diego Pavia, post-draft interview
- “What Diego has accomplished as a member of our program is undeniable, and those who know him best also know that his impact extends far beyond his performance on the field,” — Clark Lea, Vanderbilt head coach
- “Pavia is a short, tough, productive quarterback who plays bigger than his measurables,” — Lance Zierlein, NFL.com analyst
What’s Next
Pavia will attend the Ravens’ rookie minicamp (May 1-3) and receive preseason reps as the team evaluates him against Fagnano for the third-string quarterback role. The loser of that competition is likely to be placed on the practice squad, while the winner could earn a spot on the 53-man roster for the 2026-27 season.
