One of the standout stories from the 2026 NFL draft was the surprising turn of events surrounding Diego Pavia, a former quarterback at Vanderbilt and Heisman finalist. For the first time since 2014, a draft-eligible Heisman finalist went undrafted, raising eyebrows across the league.
Pavia didn’t find a quick landing spot among the many undrafted free agent signings, which often include up to 20 players. Instead, he took a chance and accepted an invitation to try out with the Baltimore Ravens during their rookie minicamp. This tryout is crucial for him; it’s his shot to prove he deserves a place on the offseason roster.
If he performs well this weekend, he could secure a spot on the team’s 90-man roster. That would then pave the way for him to make a case during training camp and preseason games to earn a place on the 53-man roster or the practice squad.
This journey won’t be easy. Many scouts overlooked him, and now he faces the challenge of demonstrating their assessments were misguided.
Experts say that players who go undrafted can still find success. According to a recent analysis from the NFL Player Association, undrafted players make up about 15% of NFL rosters. This shows that while tough, it’s not impossible. If Pavia doesn’t make the Ravens, he could find opportunities in leagues like the CFL or UFL, which could help him gain invaluable experience and exposure.
Fans are watching closely. Social media is abuzz with discussions about his journey, highlighting the resilience required to chase a dream, even after setbacks. Whatever happens, his story could inspire many who find themselves facing challenges. For now, he has a foot in the door. The next steps are up to him.
For further insights, you can explore this NFLPA report that delves into the experiences of undrafted players.
