Diego Pavia has become one of the most talked-about quarterbacks in college football despite going undrafted in the 2026 NFL Draft. After an outstanding collegiate career and a memorable Heisman Trophy campaign, Pavia earned an opportunity with the Baltimore Ravens. However, his NFL journey took an unexpected turn when the Ravens released him before training camp.
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Who Is Diego Pavia?
Diego Pavia is an American quarterback known for his competitive style, mobility, and leadership. He first gained national recognition at New Mexico State before transferring to Vanderbilt, where he elevated his game against elite SEC competition.
During the 2025 college football season, Pavia established himself as one of the nation’s top quarterbacks, combining accurate passing with dangerous rushing ability. His fearless playing style helped Vanderbilt enjoy one of its most successful seasons in decades.
His performances earned him national awards and serious Heisman Trophy consideration, making him one of college football’s biggest stories.
Diego Pavia Height
One of the biggest talking points throughout the NFL Draft process was Diego Pavia’s height.
Although Vanderbilt listed him around 6 feet, official pre-draft measurements placed him just under 5-foot-10, making him one of the shortest quarterback prospects in the class.
While modern NFL quarterbacks such as Russell Wilson and Kyler Murray have proven shorter passers can succeed, many teams still prefer taller quarterbacks because they generally have better throwing lanes and traditional pocket presence.
Pavia’s size became one of the biggest reasons analysts believed he slipped out of the draft.
Diego Pavia’s Heisman Campaign
Despite concerns about his NFL projection, Pavia enjoyed one of the greatest seasons in Vanderbilt football history.
He threw for more than 3,500 passing yards while adding over 800 rushing yards and accounted for 39 total touchdowns during the 2025 season. His dynamic dual-threat ability transformed Vanderbilt into a winning program and earned him SEC Offensive Player of the Year honors.
Pavia ultimately finished as the Heisman Trophy runner-up, becoming one of the most celebrated players in college football.
His remarkable season also made it surprising when no NFL team selected him during the draft.
Why Diego Pavia Went Undrafted
Many draft analysts expected Pavia to hear his name called on Day 3 of the NFL Draft.
Instead, all seven rounds passed without a selection.
Several factors likely contributed:
- Below-average quarterback height
- Questions about arm strength
- Older age compared to many rookie quarterbacks
- Teams viewing him as a developmental prospect
- Concerns surrounding some off-field attention before the draft
Even so, many experts considered him one of the best undrafted players available immediately after the draft concluded.
Diego Pavia Joins the Baltimore Ravens
Shortly after going undrafted, Diego Pavia accepted an invitation to Baltimore Ravens rookie minicamp.
His impressive work during the camp convinced Baltimore to sign him before workouts even concluded.
The Ravens viewed him as an intriguing developmental quarterback behind franchise star Lamar Jackson, giving Pavia an opportunity to compete throughout the offseason.
For Pavia, simply getting an NFL opportunity represented another chapter in a career built on proving doubters wrong.
Diego Pavia Contract
After earning his roster spot, Pavia signed a three-year rookie contract worth approximately $3.1 million with the Ravens.
However, the deal reportedly included no guaranteed money or signing bonus, meaning Baltimore could release him with minimal financial consequences.
That type of contract is common for undrafted free agents, who must earn every opportunity through strong performances in camp.
Why Did the Ravens Cut Diego Pavia?
In July 2026, just before training camp began, the Baltimore Ravens waived Diego Pavia.
The move wasn’t necessarily an indictment of his talent. Baltimore needed roster flexibility after signing veteran offensive lineman Ethan Pocic, forcing the team to create space on the 90-man roster.
The Ravens also had multiple quarterbacks competing for backup roles, making the position particularly crowded.
Although disappointing, being waived doesn’t necessarily end Pavia’s NFL career.
What’s Next for Diego Pavia?
Because he was waived, Pavia can now be claimed by another NFL franchise.
If he clears waivers, he’ll become a free agent and can sign with any interested team. Reports have also suggested the CFL could become another potential destination if NFL opportunities don’t immediately materialize.
Quarterbacks with his competitiveness and leadership often receive additional opportunities, especially after injuries occur during preseason.
Can Diego Pavia Still Play in the NFL?
Absolutely.
NFL history is filled with quarterbacks who overcame disappointing starts to build successful careers.
Pavia’s college production, mobility, and experience make him an intriguing developmental option. Teams looking for an athletic backup quarterback may still view him as a worthwhile investment.
If he continues improving his mechanics and demonstrates consistent passing accuracy, another NFL opportunity could arrive sooner rather than later.
Final Thoughts
Diego Pavia’s football journey has never followed the traditional path. From proving himself at New Mexico State to becoming a Vanderbilt star and Heisman runner-up, he has consistently exceeded expectations.
Although going undrafted and later being released by the Baltimore Ravens represents another obstacle, it doesn’t define his career. His determination, leadership, and production suggest he still has the potential to earn another professional opportunity.
Whether his next chapter unfolds with another NFL franchise or elsewhere, Diego Pavia remains one of football’s most fascinating underdog stories. His resilience and ability to overcome adversity have already inspired fans, and many believe his best football could still be ahead of him.
