Diego Pavia is in talks to join the United Football League ahead of its draft next month, signaling the former Vanderbilt quarterback’s intent to continue his professional career outside the NFL. On Tuesday, Pavia confirmed via X that his agent and the UFL are negotiating his entry into the league, promising fans will see full effort from him regardless of the team he joins.
Pavia, 24, rose to prominence as the 2025 Heisman Trophy runner-up during a lengthy college career that ended last season. His path to professional football has been unconventional. After going undrafted in the NFL Draft earlier this year, Pavia signed with the Baltimore Ravens as a free agent but was waived before training camp. His size and playing style factored into teams’ hesitations, but his determination remains clear.
“My journey’s not done,” Pavia said in a video shared recently by sports reporter James Larsen. “I plan on doing some #UFL.” He added that he hopes to bring former teammates with him and to support other players worldwide. “If they need help, they can reach out to me. I’ll be at a lot of games.”
The Columbus Aviators, who hold the No. 1 overall pick in the UFL Draft scheduled for November 18 in St. Louis, appeared interested in Pavia. The team quoted his statement on social media, teasing their potential pursuit of the quarterback.
Pavia’s college career was marked by legal battles off the field as well as his performances on it. He sued the NCAA over eligibility rules, arguing that the organization unfairly counted his junior college time against his NCAA eligibility. A federal judge in Tennessee sided with him, granting an injunction that allowed Pavia a sixth season of college play. This case contributed to ongoing debates over NCAA eligibility and athlete compensation.
On the field, Pavia helped Vanderbilt turn around its program, leading the Commodores to 17 wins over two seasons including a 10-win 2025 campaign. His style drew comparisons to Johnny Manziel, another SEC quarterback known for playmaking despite smaller stature. Pavia’s approach earned him both admirers and critics, with his confidence and flair often dividing opinion.
Media figures have also weighed in on his prospects. ESPN’s Pat McAfee called Pavia and the UFL “a match made in heaven” shortly after the NFL Draft, noting Pavia’s mobility and name recognition would fit well in spring football. McAfee acknowledged that Pavia’s size and style likely limited NFL interest but praised his competitive nature. NFL backup Ben DiNucci encouraged Pavia to explore the UFL and Canadian Football League as routes to keep playing, even comparing his potential career to Doug Flutie’s CFL success.
Pavia has expressed a desire not just to continue playing but to share the experience with others, including his younger sister. “I want to support her in every way I can. I want to show her the grind of how I made it, how I made it to some of the biggest stages in college athletics,” he said in the recent clip.
With negotiations ongoing, Pavia’s next professional chapter could begin in the UFL’s spring season. The exact team and terms remain unconfirmed as the November draft approaches.
According to Yahoo Sports.
