“I feel like the only thing the NFL cares about is can you win, and I view myself as a winner,” said Diego Pavia, the former Vanderbilt quarterback who recently signed with the Baltimore Ravens as an undrafted free agent.
Pavia’s journey to this point has been anything but conventional. A Heisman Trophy finalist in 2025, he finished second to Fernando Mendoza but still found himself without a team after the draft—a situation that hasn’t occurred for a Heisman finalist since 2014.
During his college career, Pavia threw for 10,255 yards and rushed for 3,094 yards. Last season alone, he led the SEC in completion percentage at 70%, passing touchdowns with 29, and yards per attempt at 9.4. Despite these impressive stats, concerns about his height—standing at just 5-foot-10—and age raised eyebrows during the NFL Combine.
Pavia’s personality has often been described as brash and polarizing. Yet, he remains focused on proving himself. “Diego, just like a lot of the undrafted free agents, (is) trying to make his mark,” said Jesse Minter, Ravens’ defensive coordinator.
At the rookie minicamp held in Owings Mills, MD, Pavia split practice reps with fellow undrafted quarterback Joe Fagnano. Although he did not throw the ball downfield during practice, he actively participated in individual drills.
Pavia’s performance at Vanderbilt was stellar; he led the team to its first 10-win season and a postseason appearance in the ReliaQuest Bowl. Additionally, he was named SEC Offensive Player of the Year and won the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm award.
The Ravens see potential in Pavia. Minter expressed optimism: “For us, we see it as an opportunity to bring a player in that could potentially be something.” As he continues to develop his skills during this crucial period, Pavia aims to earn an invitation to training camp this summer.
