Collegiate production doesn't always translate to the NFL. Diego Pavia is one of the clearest examples in recent history. The former Vanderbilt quarterback went undrafted this offseason after finishing second in Heisman voting in 2025. The Baltimore Ravens recently waived the polarizing QB, and the Green Bay Packers have already been named as a potential landing spot.
Following the Ravens' move, Sports Illustrated writer Mike Kadlick listed three NFL teams that could offer Pavia another chance. He included the Packers, saying, "Could LaFleur unlock something similar with Pavia—a raw but dynamic playmaker who could use some behind-the-scenes development? It could be worth the dice roll."
Matt LaFleur's squad already added veteran backup Tyrod Taylor this offseason, securing their QB depth after the departure of Malik Willis. There's no need to sign up for the drama that bringing the polarizing rookie to training camp would cause.
Packers have no business entertaining Diego Pavia signing
Pavia is a talented quarterback. He was electric for Vanderbilt last season, leading the Commodores to a 10-3 record. He logged over 4,500 total yards and 39 touchdowns (29 passing and 10 rushing) with an impressive 70.4 percentage completion rate.
He signed a three-year deal with the Ravens after going undrafted, although the contract reportedly included no guarantees. Baltimore moved on from him after signing center Ethan Pocic leading into training camp.
Why would the NFL be so disinterested in a Heisman runner-up who put up video game numbers in his final collegiate season? Pavia doesn't fit the typical mold of an NFL quarterback.
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He's just over 5-10 and lacks many of the physical traits teams look for in a QB. The only quarterbacks listed at 5-10 or shorter to start an NFL game in recent history are Bryce Young and Kyler Murray. Both players went first overall in their respective drafts, but they both possess elite traits that Pavia lacks.
Without standout arm strength, accuracy, or processing skills, Pavia doesn't have any traits that make him a strong bet for NFL franchises. He's clearly a relentless competitor, but his skill set doesn't line up with what has been successful in the league.
The rookie's polarizing presence pushes the decision over the edge. He's a constant source of media attention, and not one that the Packers need in training camp. Green Bay does a relatively good job of avoiding offseason drama. There's no need to break that trend for Pavia.
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