Diego Pavia’s NFL Journey: Ravens Sign Heisman Runner-Up to 3-Year Deal After Undrafted Slide
The Baltimore Ravens have made a bold move in the quarterback competition, signing Heisman Trophy finalist Diego Pavia to a three-year contract after he went undrafted in the 2026 NFL Draft. The move marks a significant development for Pavia, who had hoped to secure a roster spot through the draft but instead found himself in the undrafted free agent pool. Now, with the Ravens’ backing, Pavia is poised to compete for a role as the team’s third quarterback, joining Lamar Jackson and Tyler Huntley.
A Historic Undrafted Path
Pavia, a 24-year-old from Vanderbilt, became the first Heisman Trophy finalist to move undrafted since 2014. His journey to the NFL was far from traditional—he began at New Mexico Military Institute, won an NJCAA national championship, and later transferred to New Mexico State, where he earned CUSA Offensive Player of the Year honors. His final two seasons at Vanderbilt cemented his legacy, culminating in a Heisman runner-up finish and the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award.
Despite his elite college résumé, Pavia’s path to the NFL was complicated by concerns over his 5-foot-10 frame and his decision to skip certain combine drills, including the 40-yard dash, vertical jump, and broad jump. These omissions left scouts with lingering questions about his athleticism and versatility.
Ravens’ Strategic Depth Move
The Ravens, who did not draft a quarterback in 2026, have been actively building depth at the position. In addition to Pavia, the team signed Joe Fagnano, a 25-year-old undrafted free agent from UConn, to a three-year deal. Fagnano, a seventh-year senior, led the Huskies to a 9-3 record in 2025, throwing for 3,448 yards, 28 touchdowns, and just one interception, boasting a 69.2 QB rating.
Pavia’s addition to the Ravens’ rookie minicamp (May 1–3, 2026) signals the team’s intent to evaluate him alongside Fagnano for a developmental third-quarterback role. With Lamar Jackson and Tyler Huntley locked in as the starters, Pavia and Fagnano will compete for the final roster spot, which could see one of them earn a practice squad or active roster role by training camp.
What This Means for Pavia’s NFL Future
Pavia’s signing is a rare success story for an undrafted quarterback, particularly one with his pedigree. While the path to an NFL roster spot remains competitive, the Ravens’ investment suggests confidence in his college performance and leadership. If he can prove his preparedness, football IQ, and adaptability in Baltimore’s system, he could carve out a niche as a backup or even a starter in the future.
For now, Pavia’s focus is on minicamp and training camp, where he will face intense scrutiny. His ability to outperform Fagnano—or another undrafted prospect—will determine whether he earns a roster spot or a practice squad assignment. Either way, his journey from undrafted free agent to signed veteran is already one of the most compelling narratives in the league.
Key Takeaways
- Historic Signing: Pavia is the first Heisman finalist to go undrafted since 2014, making his Ravens deal a landmark moment for undrafted free agents.
- Ravens’ Depth Strategy: The team is aggressively adding quarterback competition, with Pavia and Fagnano vying for the third spot behind Lamar Jackson and Tyler Huntley.
- Developmental Path: Pavia’s contract is a three-year deal, indicating the Ravens see long-term potential rather than a short-term fix.
- Minicamp Test: His performance in May’s rookie minicamp will be critical in determining his immediate NFL future.
FAQ: Diego Pavia’s NFL Prospects
Q: Why did Diego Pavia go undrafted? A: Despite his Heisman runner-up finish, Pavia’s 5-foot-10 frame and decision to skip certain combine drills raised concerns about his athleticism and versatility.
Q: What is Pavia’s role with the Ravens? A: He is competing for the third quarterback spot, behind Lamar Jackson and Tyler Huntley, with a chance to earn a roster or practice squad role.
Q: How does this compare to other undrafted QBs? A: Pavia’s signing is rare for a quarterback of his caliber. Most undrafted QBs sign practice squad deals, but his three-year contract reflects the Ravens’ belief in his upside.
Q: Could Pavia start for the Ravens? A: Unlikely in 2026, but if Jackson or Huntley underperform, Pavia could emerge as a backup or starter in future seasons.
Looking Ahead
Pavia’s story is far from over. His rookie minicamp performance will set the tone for his NFL career, and if he impresses, he could become one of the most successful undrafted quarterbacks in recent memory. For now, the Ravens have given him the opportunity to prove he belongs—and that’s a rare chance in today’s NFL.
Sources:
- Yahoo Sports: Ravens Sign Undrafted QB to a 3-Year Deal
- SI.com: Where Diego Pavia Stands in Ravens’ QB Room
- NFL.com: Diego Pavia Prospect Profile
- Baltimore Ravens Official: Undrafted Free Agent Tracker