The 2026 NFL Draft delivered its usual surprises, like Alabama QB Ty Simpson picked by the Los Angeles Rams as the 13th overall pick, and Diego Pavia going undrafted. The Vanderbilt star field general entered the process as one of college football’s most productive passers and even finished as a Heisman Trophy finalist.
Yet, despite his strong showing, no team used a pick on him across all seven rounds. The situation quickly sparked debate across the NFL community, with many questioning why he wasn’t drafted.
Ben DiNucci Explains Why Diego Pavia Went Undrafted Despite Elite College Production
Pavia’s college output suggests he should have at least been a late-round selection or a priority undrafted free agent. In 2025, he completed 70.6% of his passes for 3,539 yards and 29 touchdowns, and according to PFSN’s College Football QB Impact Metric, he posted a nation-leading 94.8 impact score. He also earned SEC Offensive Player of the Year honors.
Despite that production, Pavia’s draft outcome contrasted sharply with his peers. Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza went No. 1 overall after a historic season, while Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love was selected third.
Even among Heisman finalists, Pavia stood out as the only one left without a team, becoming the first finalist since 2014 to go undrafted. The gap between performance and opportunity has led many to search for answers beyond on-field ability. Ben DiNucci, who was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in 2020, addressed the situation on X, suggesting that Pavia’s path forward may now lie outside the NFL.
“If I was Diego Pavia and still want to play football I would call the CFL and The UFL immediately,” he wrote on X. No better way to shut people up and show them you’re serious about playing. Just have to go play somewhere at this point. I could see him having similar career to Doug Flutie up north.”
His comment highlights the idea that alternative leagues can serve as proving grounds for overlooked quarterbacks. When fans pushed back, asking whether an NFL practice squad opportunity was still possible, DiNucci clarified the immediate hurdle.
“He’s gotta get signed somewhere before P-Squad is even a thought.” As more users questioned why teams were passing on Pavia despite his upside, DiNucci delivered his most pointed take, explaining the reason, “Doesn’t matter. NFL doesn’t want QBs with baggage.”
If I was Diego Pavia and still want to play football I would call the @CFL and @TheUFL immediately.
No better way to shut people up and show them you’re serious about playing. Just have to go play somewhere at this point.
I could see him having similar career to Doug Flutie…
— Ben DiNucci (@B_DiNucci6) April 26, 2026
He continued to double down when comparisons to other quarterbacks were raised, responding, “Where else do you want him to go if no NFL team signs him?”
MORE: PFSN’s 2026 NFL UDFA Tracker
He later added a broader perspective on the league’s mindset, suggesting that decision-makers may prioritize perceived reliability and minimal risk over raw potential. “It’s 1000% this. Jobs are in the line. The NFL and patience are two words that don’t go together.”
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For now, Pavia remains unsigned, and his silence since the draft has only added to the uncertainty around his future. While his college career proves he can perform at a high level, the next step will likely require rebuilding his reputation as much as showcasing his talent.
Leagues like the CFL or UFL could offer immediate playing just in case he makes a move, and if he succeeds elsewhere, the NFL door may reopen. But as DiNucci’s comments indicate, the league’s tolerance for risk, especially at quarterback, can be limited.
