Diego Pavia Faces Setback as Ravens Release Former Heisman Runner-Up

Diego Pavia, who gained attention as the Heisman Trophy runner-up, faces a new challenge. The Baltimore Ravens released Pavia, former Vanderbilt University quarterback, on Thursday. This decision came just before the full-squad training camp practices set for next Wednesday, meaning Pavia won’t even start the camp.

Being cut at this stage presents both opportunities and setbacks for Pavia. On the one hand, Pavia was considered a long shot to secure a spot on the Baltimore roster. Now free to join another NFL team, he holds the chance to compete for a roster spot before training camps begin.

However, Baltimore’s move also serves a blow to Pavia’s aspirations. Despite his achievements at Vanderbilt, the Ravens opted for other talents. They made this decision even though the team had shown significant interest in him post-draft, bringing him in for workouts and keeping him over the offseason.

“The team that was most interested now decided he’s not what they need,” the situation suggests.

The Ravens waived Pavia to create space for veteran center Ethan Pocic on their 90-man roster. In their quarterback lineup, Pavia was regarded as the third-best option competing for the No. 3 quarterback role. Baltimore instead chose to focus their competition on veteran Skylar Thompson and rookie Joe Fagnano, another undrafted free agent like Pavia. The decision indicates the team ranks Pavia as their fifth-best quarterback as they proceed with four, expecting Lamar Jackson and Tyler Huntley to hold the main spots.

Pavia’s journey to the Ravens involved some connection, as the team’s new coach, Jesse Minter, relied on insights from his friend, Vanderbilt’s coach Clark Lea, who had coached Pavia. Yet, despite the Ravens’ familiarity with him and his accomplishments, Pavia’s performance did not secure him a place on their roster.

The setback doesn’t close all avenues. Should NFL opportunities not arise immediately, Pavia might explore options within the CFL, where teams can require quarterbacks due to injuries, with a season running through October.