Overview
- Vanderbilt’s Heisman runner‑up remained on the board after Friday’s first three rounds, setting up a Saturday Day 3 decision on whether he gets drafted or signs post‑draft.
- NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero said Saturday that Pavia sits on the late‑round edge and could instead become a priority undrafted free agent, with coaches praising his competitiveness and football IQ.
- Measurements pegged him as the shortest quarterback in this class at roughly 5‑10, and evaluators flagged a below‑average deep ball, inconsistent mechanics, and limited arm vigor as reasons for the slide.
- Pavia delivered elite college production in 2025 with 3,539 passing yards, 29 passing touchdowns, and 862 rushing yards while leading Vanderbilt to its first 10‑win season and finishing second in Heisman voting.
- Late interest included a visit with the Panthers, yet several final seven‑round mocks left him off the board, and a small pre‑draft misstep—no agent and mismatched draft‑party hats—fed a narrative that perception and preparation matter for fringe QBs.