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Undrafted Heisman Runner-Up Diego Pavia Signs 3-Year Deal with Baltimore Ravens
BALTIMORE — Tuesday, April 28, 2026
The Baltimore Ravens have added a dynamic undrafted quarterback to their roster, signing former Vanderbilt standout Diego Pavia to a three-year contract as an undrafted free agent, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported. The move comes just days after the 2026 NFL Draft concluded, where Pavia became the first Heisman Trophy runner-up since 2003 to go undrafted.
Why Pavia Fell Through the Draft
At 5-foot-10, Pavia’s height was a major concern for NFL scouts, despite his prolific college career. In his final season at Vanderbilt in 2025, he led the SEC in completion percentage (70.6%), touchdown passes (29), yards per attempt (9.4), and quarterback rating (170.4). He too added 862 rushing yards and 10 rushing touchdowns, showcasing the dual-threat ability that made him a Heisman finalist.
However, questions about his deep-ball accuracy and pocket presence led to his draft-day snub. The Ravens, known for their mobile quarterback system under Lamar Jackson, saw an opportunity to develop Pavia’s strengths without the pressure of a high draft pick.
The Ravens’ Quarterback Depth Chart Now
With two-time NFL MVP Lamar Jackson entrenched as the starter and veteran Tyler Huntley signed to a two-year, $5 million deal this offseason, Pavia enters a competitive battle for the QB3 role. The Ravens also signed UConn quarterback Joe Fagnano to a three-year deal, per NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
Fagnano, who threw for 28 touchdowns and just one interception in 2025, will compete with Pavia for the third-string spot. Both quarterbacks bring mobility and arm talent, fitting Baltimore’s offensive scheme under first-year head coach Jesse Minter.
What This Means for Pavia’s NFL Future
Pavia’s path to playing time is narrow but not impossible. The Ravens have a history of developing undrafted talent, and Pavia’s college production—3,539 passing yards and 862 rushing yards in 2025—suggests he has the tools to contribute if given the chance.
For now, he’ll compete in training camp and preseason games, with a realistic goal of earning a practice squad spot. If he impresses, he could push for a roster spot as Huntley’s backup.
Key Takeaways
- Undrafted but not overlooked: Pavia became the first Heisman runner-up since 2003 to go undrafted, but his SEC-leading stats earned him a three-year deal with the Ravens.
- Depth chart battle: He’ll compete with Joe Fagnano for the QB3 role behind Lamar Jackson and Tyler Huntley.
- Mobile QB fit: His rushing ability (862 yards in 2025) aligns with Baltimore’s offensive system.
- Long-term project: The Ravens have a track record of developing undrafted talent, giving Pavia a chance to prove himself.
What’s Next?
Pavia and Fagnano will participate in the Ravens’ rookie minicamp, which begins May 3, 2026. Their performances will determine whether they earn a roster spot or a place on the practice squad. For now, the focus is on learning the playbook and adapting to the NFL’s speed.
Follow Archysport’s NFL coverage for updates on Pavia’s progress and the Ravens’ quarterback competition.
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