Former Vanderbilt Star Diego Pavia Negotiates UFL Entry
The 24-year-old quarterback is pursuing a spot in the United Football League after a stint with the Baltimore Ravens.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Football
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Diego Pavia is currently in negotiations to join the United Football League following his release from the NFL. The former Vanderbilt standout, who went undrafted in 2026, is working with his agent, Malki Kawa, to secure a roster spot.
Why it matters
Pavia seeks a return to professional football after failing to maintain a spot on an NFL roster this year. He represents a high-profile addition to the UFL as a recent Heisman Trophy finalist seeking to continue his career.
During the 2025 season at Vanderbilt, Pavia recorded 3,539 passing yards and 29 touchdowns alongside 862 rushing yards and 10 rushing scores. The 5-foot-10, 207-pound athlete led his team to a 10-3 record.
The players
Diego Pavia
He is a 24-year-old quarterback who gained national attention as a Heisman Trophy finalist while playing for Vanderbilt.
Malki Kawa
He is a professional sports agent who is currently representing Pavia in his contract negotiations with the UFL.
Baltimore Ravens
This is a professional NFL franchise that signed Pavia as an undrafted free agent before waiving him in July 2026.
The details
Pavia became the first Heisman Trophy finalist to go undrafted since 2014 after his standout collegiate career. After signing with the Baltimore Ravens as an undrafted free agent, he was eventually waived on July 23, 2026, leading to his current pursuit of a UFL opportunity.
Timeline
2014 marks the year Jordan Lynch became the last Heisman finalist to go undrafted.
2025 was the season where Pavia achieved a 10-3 record with Vanderbilt.
July 23, 2026, is the date the Baltimore Ravens waived Diego Pavia.
October 20, 2026, is when negotiations with the UFL were announced.
November 18, 2026, is the date for the 2027 UFL Draft in St. Louis.
Season Trajectory
Pavia's move to the UFL highlights a broader trend where former high-level collegiate stars look to alternative leagues to jumpstart stalled professional careers. This addition could significantly impact the competitive balance of the UFL heading into the 2027 season.
Pavia brings significant statistical pedigree to the UFL after throwing 29 touchdowns and rushing for 10 in his final college season. His arrival establishes him as an immediate marquee talent for fantasy rosters and potential starting quarterback debates within the league.
The takeaway
Pavia's transition shows how elite college athletes now leverage alternative professional leagues when NFL rosters remain out of reach. Fans should monitor his upcoming team placement to see if he can replicate his collegiate production at the professional level.
What happens next
The 2027 UFL Draft is scheduled to take place on November 18, 2026, in St. Louis.
Further reading
For more information on the current state of the league, visit the Football section.
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