Former Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia has become one of the biggest talking points of the 2026 NFL offseason after the Baltimore Ravens waived him just days before training camp. The move came only a few months after the Heisman Trophy runner-up signed with Baltimore as an undrafted free agent, ending his first stint in the NFL sooner than expected. The Ravens released Pavia to create roster space for veteran center Ethan Pocic while narrowing their quarterback competition.
Although the release is disappointing, Pavia’s remarkable college career and competitive style suggest he could receive opportunities with another NFL team or elsewhere in professional football.
Why Did the Ravens Cut Diego Pavia?
The Ravens entered training camp with several quarterbacks behind franchise star Lamar Jackson. Veteran Tyler Huntley, Skylar Thompson and rookie Joe Fagnano were all competing for backup roles.
To add experienced offensive lineman Ethan Pocic, Baltimore needed an open roster spot. The organization chose to waive Pavia, ending his bid for the No. 3 quarterback job before camp officially began. Team officials indicated the decision was driven by roster construction rather than a lack of talent.
Diego Pavia Height
One of the biggest talking points during the 2026 NFL Draft process was Pavia’s size.
- Height: 5 feet 10 inches (1.78 m)
- Weight: Approximately 207 pounds
Many NFL scouts questioned whether his height would limit his ability to succeed at the professional level. Despite his impressive college production, those concerns contributed to him going undrafted.
Why Was Diego Pavia Undrafted?
Despite finishing as the 2025 Heisman Trophy runner-up, Pavia was surprisingly not selected during the 2026 NFL Draft.
Scouts praised his:
- Leadership
- Mobility
- Toughness
- Playmaking ability
However, concerns included:
- Below-average NFL quarterback size
- Arm strength compared to top prospects
- Projection into a pro-style offense
The Ravens quickly signed him after the draft, believing he was worth developing.
Diego Pavia Contract Details
Following the draft, Baltimore signed Pavia as an undrafted free agent.
According to reports, his rookie agreement was:
- Length: 3 years
- Value: Approximately $3.1 million
The contract gave him an opportunity to compete for a roster spot throughout rookie minicamp and offseason workouts before his eventual release.
What Happens After His Release?
Being waived does not necessarily end Pavia’s NFL hopes.
If another franchise claims him, he would immediately join that team. If he clears waivers, he becomes a free agent and can sign anywhere. Reports have also suggested the CFL’s Winnipeg Blue Bombers hold his negotiating rights if he chooses that path.
Given his successful college résumé, many expect teams needing quarterback depth to continue monitoring him.
Diego Pavia’s College Career
Before entering the NFL, Pavia built one of college football’s most remarkable stories.
He played for:
- New Mexico Military Institute
- New Mexico State
- Vanderbilt
At Vanderbilt, he helped transform the program into a national contender and earned numerous honors, including:
- Heisman Trophy runner-up
- SEC Offensive Player of the Year
- Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award
- First-Team All-American
His competitive style and leadership made him one of the nation’s most respected quarterbacks.
Who Is Diego Pavia’s Mom?
Diego Pavia was raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, by his mother, Antoinette Padilla, who worked as a nurse. Pavia has frequently spoken about the sacrifices she made during his childhood, crediting her support as a major reason behind his football journey.
What’s Next for Diego Pavia?
Although his time with the Ravens ended before training camp, Pavia remains an intriguing quarterback prospect. His college production, athleticism and leadership could attract interest from NFL teams seeking developmental quarterbacks during preseason.
For now, his focus shifts toward finding the next opportunity to continue proving that his college success can translate to the professional level. With roster moves continuing across the league, Pavia’s football story is far from over.
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