Diego Pavia, Heisman Trophy finalist, waived by Ravens. What to know - USA Today

What the report says

USA Today reported that the Baltimore Ravens waived rookie quarterback Diego Pavia on July 23, before he reached his first NFL training camp. Pavia, a former Vanderbilt standout and Heisman Trophy finalist, had joined Baltimore in April on a standard three-year undrafted free agent contract after going unselected in the 2026 NFL Draft.

According to the report, Pavia entered the NFL waiver process after the move, giving the league’s other 31 teams a 24-hour window to claim his existing deal. If no team claims him, he would return to the open market and be able to negotiate with any club. USA Today listed his contract at three years and $3.1 million in total value, with no guaranteed money.

Pavia, 24, faced a difficult path to Baltimore’s roster. The Ravens already have Lamar Jackson established as their starter and Tyler Huntley as an experienced backup. USA Today said Pavia had been expected to compete with fellow undrafted rookie Joe Fagnano and veteran Skylar Thompson for a third-string role before the waiver decision.

The move is notable because Pavia was one of the more recognizable undrafted quarterbacks in the 2026 class. USA Today reported that he finished second in Heisman voting behind No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza and helped Vanderbilt reach a 10-3 season, described as the first 10-win campaign in program history. His listed size — just over 5-foot-10 and 203 pounds — was cited as one concern as he began his professional career.