Polarizing QB Diego Pavia Makes Unfortunate NFL Draft History
Summary
Diego Pavia, a quarterback from Vanderbilt and 2025 SEC Offensive Player of the Year, did not get selected in the 2026 NFL Draft despite being a Heisman Trophy finalist. Meanwhile, Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza, who won the Heisman Trophy, was picked first overall by the Las Vegas Raiders.Key Facts
- Fernando Mendoza led Indiana to a perfect 16-0 season and a national championship.
- Mendoza won the Heisman Trophy and was the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
- Diego Pavia led the SEC in passing touchdowns and efficiency but went undrafted.
- Pavia is the first Heisman finalist to go undrafted since 2014.
- Pavia’s height (5-foot-10) and his strong personality may have influenced teams’ decisions.
- Pavia said he expects to compete for a starting spot rather than be a backup.
- Other Heisman finalists included Jeremiyah Love, drafted third overall by the Arizona Cardinals, and Julian Sayin, who will return to college.
- Chase Daniel, who went undrafted in 2009, encouraged undrafted players by sharing his successful career experience.
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