Ravens Coach Jesse Minter Challenges Undrafted QB Diego Pavia to Prove Himself

The 5-foot-10 signal caller, aged 24, now joins a quarterback room led by multiple-time MVP Lamar Jackson, with long-time backup Tyler Huntley as the No. 2.

Minter, hired as Ravens head coach after a two-year stint as the Chargers' defensive coordinator, addressed Pavia's situation during a news conference. He described the signing as a chance to evaluate a player with potential. ’" — Jesse Minter, May 2, 2026 (ESPN) Pavia will likely compete with former UConn quarterback Joe Fagnano, who also signed a three-year deal after going undrafted, for the No.

3 spot on the depth chart. Minter indicated the number of quarterbacks on the roster remains in flux, potentially ranging from three to five, and did not rule out adding veteran free agents or other rookies.

Vanderbilt, Pavia emerged as a standout in 2025, posting an SEC-best 70.6 completion percentage with 29 passing touchdowns and eight interceptions. He added 862 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns on 167 carries. Pavia led Vanderbilt to a historic victory over then-No.

1 Alabama in 2024, recording 252 passing yards, two passing touchdowns, and 56 rushing yards on 20 carries. He earned first-team All-America honors, SEC Offensive Player of the Year, and the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award as the top upperclassman quarterback.

Following the announcement, he posted a photo on Instagram with the caption "F- ALL THE VOTERS" accompanied by a thumbs-down emoji. Minter, who served as Vanderbilt's defensive coordinator in 2021, consulted with individuals in the program, including close friend and Vanderbilt coach Clark Lea.

He acknowledged Pavia's off-field decision-making as areas for growth but praised his work ethic, noting that Pavia showed up early every day and worked hard. Ravens rookie running back Adam Randall, who played with Pavia at the Senior Bowl, described him as a competitor with great energy and attitude.

During the predraft process, questions arose about Pavia's age, height, and off-field choices.

The Ravens concluded their rookie minicamp on Sunday in Owings Mills, Maryland. Minter stated that evaluations would continue post-minicamp to shape the quarterback group. Pavia spoke to the media at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis on February 27, though he was not available for interviews during the Ravens' minicamp.

The team views his addition as a low-risk opportunity to develop talent.