FantasyPros will be taking a look at early NFL Draft scouting reports before the Combine in February. Here’s a look at Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia.
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2026 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Diego Pavia
Diego Pavia (QB – Vanderbilt)
6’0″ – 207 lbs.
Background
Originally committed to New Mexico Military Institute, spending two seasons there and going 12-1 in 2021 (16-5 overall) before transferring to New Mexico State, where he started eight games in 2022 (1,450 yards, 5.3%, 7.6 YPA, 13 touchdowns, six interceptions, 93-508-6 rushing). Led the Aggies to a 10-5 record in 2023, with 2,973 yards (60.4%, 8.1), 26 touchdowns, nine interceptions, and a 176-923-7 rushing line. Transferred to Vanderbilt in 2024 and went 7-6, with 2,293 yards (59.4%, 7.7 YPA), twenty touchdowns, and four interceptions, with 193-800-8 rushing. Finished as the Heisman runner-up this year, with a 10-3 record, 3,539 yards (70.6%, 9.4 YPA), 29 touchdowns, eight interceptions, and a 167-862-10 rushing line.
Positives
Highly productive, experienced starter with 49 FBS starts under his belt, and who made 2025 his best season. Light on his feet in the pocket, with a sound base and no heel click. Generally able to play on time when executing rhythm throws, which were a big part of his team’s offense. Gets the ball out quickly, with a three-quarters delivery that he can drop down as needed. Has above-average arm strength, with good velocity and a tight spiral to his throws; you can see it leap out of his hand a bit, and he’s able to drive throws out toward the sidelines. Ability to escape from pressure and extend the play creates opportunities for his receivers to get open, and does a good job of keeping his eyes downfield while scrambling. A true dual-threat who was often used on designed runs, and can also pick up first downs with his feet when the middle of the field is left open; shows impressive competitiveness and physicality after contact.
Negatives
Will be a 24-year-old rookie after spending six years in school. Has a relatively thick build, but is certainly on the small side for a pro quarterback, and might struggle to see over the line; actually height is supposedly below listed height. Comes from a relatively simplified scheme that featured a lot of predetermined reads and short throws on screens and over the middle of the field, and doesn’t have the most experience working through progressions. Tends to stare down targets. Shows a bit of a “one read and go” approach to the position at times, preferring to take off rather than work through progressions, even when the pocket is clean. Sort of a one-speed thrower who drives seemingly every pass, rather than layering in throws with touch. Takes a lot of punishment and could do a better job of getting down to protect his body.
Summary
One of college football’s most exciting players this past season, he combines impressive improvisational skills and above-average arm strength, with a physical, competitive playing style which somewhat recalls the likes of Baker Mayfield. However, is also much shorter than your typical quarterback, and is currently a bit of a fastball-only, one-read passer who consistently flees workable pockets, perhaps to get a better view of the field. A freewheeling player who might not fit every scheme but will likely get third-day consideration from some teams.
Projection: Round 5-6
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