Controversial former Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia will attempt to continue his professional football career in the United Football League (UFL).
Pavia previously signed with the Baltimore Ravens after going undrafted out of college despite coming second in voting for the Heisman Trophy.
But after being released by Baltimore this summer, Pavia has not signed with any NFL team’s practice squad.
On Tuesday, Pavia revealed his intention to keep his playing career alive by playing in the springtime football league in 2027.
‘Appreciate everyone reaching out with everything on my career,’ Pavia posted to his account on X.
‘My agent (Malki Kawa) and the UFL are currently in negotiations to make this happen! whatever team I end up at, I can promise you one thing- You will get everything I got.’
Former Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia intends to play football in the UFL this spring
Pavia, last year’s Heisman runner-up, signed with the Baltimore Ravens after going undrafted
The Ravens released Pavia after training camp, leaving the 24-year-old without a team
The UFL’s biggest owner, VitaminWater creator and sports magnate Mike Repole, encouraged Pavia to join the league with a response to the quarterback’s post.
‘Diego, we would LOVE to welcome you to the UFL!!!!!’ Repole said. ‘I promise you one thing, we will challenge you, push you to reach your highest potential, and help you chase your biggest dreams!!!!’
Pavia was one of the best quarterbacks in the country during the 2025 college football season, racking up 3,359 passing yards, 862 rushing yards and 39 combined touchdowns.
But his short stature and his sore-loser behavior after losing the Heisman prevented some teams from taking a flyer on the 24-year-old.
Before arriving at Vanderbilt, Pavia previously played for the New Mexico Military Institute and New Mexico State.
