The path to the NFL is not the same for everyone, and it’s rarely straightforward, but for Diego Pavia, it has already taken an unexpected turn. Despite a standout college career and elite production at Vanderbilt, the quarterback went completely undrafted in 2026, raising eyebrows across the football world.
Now, he finds himself with the Baltimore Ravens, fighting for a roster spot in a crowded QB room. What he lacks in draft pedigree, he’ll need to make up for with performance. And as head coach Jesse Minter made clear, the message to Pavia is simple — prove it.
Jesse Minter Sends Clear Message to Diego Pavia as Baltimore Ravens QB Battle Heats Up
Speaking during rookie minicamp, Minter emphasized that Pavia’s opportunity is no different from any other undrafted player trying to make a name in the league, but now he has to keep his showing tough to prove his mettle.
“So now he’s in the door and it’s like, ‘Show us what you can do,'” Minter said, via ESPN. “And just like all the undrafted rookies, that’s what I would say.”
The statement reflects the reality of Pavia’s situation. Unlike drafted players who often receive longer evaluation windows, undrafted free agents must quickly demonstrate value.
Minter reinforced that mindset, adding, “For us, we see it as an opportunity to bring a player in that could potentially be something, and that’s really what this is for us.”
That opportunity didn’t come easily. After going undrafted, Pavia initially had to settle for a rookie minicamp invitation before eventually earning a three-year deal. It marked a dramatic shift for a player who, statistically, was among the best in college football.
According to PFSN’s CFB QB Impact Metrics, Pavia finished the 2025 regular season ranked first in the nation with an impact score of 94.83, ahead of Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza’s 93.26 — the best college QB from the metrics standpoint.
While his college production was undeniable as he recorded 3,539 passing yards and 29 touchdowns in 12 games, questions about his size, arm strength, and past off-field behavior contributed to his slide. Minter acknowledged that background while also pointing to Pavia’s work ethic.
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“He had some experiences that are learning experiences that he could learn from and be better from. I don’t think anybody would dispute that,” Minter said. “But when you talk to the people inside that building (at Vanderbilt) and what he’s about as a player, he is showing up early every day and working really hard.”
The Ravens’ QB room presents a massive challenge. With Lamar Jackson entrenched as the starter and Tyler Huntley providing experienced depth, Pavia is competing for a third-string role or practice squad position alongside other hopefuls like Joe Fagnano.
“We’ll kind of look at it coming out of rookie minicamp,” Minter said. “I think that’s a room where you’re always trying to find that perfect number, and we’ll continue to do that.”
For Pavia, the equation is straightforward. The franchises like the Ravens may continue to explore additional QB options, but his focus cannot shift. His job is to perform, improve, and make himself impossible to ignore.
