Pavia became the first Heisman Trophy finalist since Northern Illinois quarterback Jordan Lynch in 2014. Following his loss to Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza, the 2026 NFL Draft No. 1 overall pick, in the Heisman voting, Pavia infamously posted on social media, “F—- EVERYONE.”
Pavia was long in achievements and was of great importance. She was an All-American, the SEC Offensive Player of the Year and the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award winner last season for Vandy.
However, at 5-foot-10, 207 pounds and perhaps with the worry of an apparent concussion, Pavia not only didn’t compete, he wasn’t even listed as a free agent. He has just received an invitation to attend rookie camp.
He brings loads of moxie and confidence. Pavia boasts great competitiveness as a dual defender who can create with his arm and leg.
After two seasons at New Mexico, Pavia helped launch the Vanderbilt program over the past two years. The 2025 Heisman Trophy sophomore threw for 3,539 yards on a 71% completion percentage, 29:8 TD-to-INT ratio, and added 862 rushing yards and 10 rushing scores in 13 starts last season.
The thickly built team leader flashes goalkeeping qualities, including excellent accuracy on the move. He thrived in RPO, able to pull the trigger quickly and adapt to flowing movements. His quick feet allowed him to avoid initial pressure and his pinpoint accuracy on short and intermediate throws troubled defences. Pavia is a player who boasts the football smarts and confidence to raise any boat.
His lack of size is a problem behind NFL offensive lines, where his vision can be limited without pocket movement. Pavia also lacks anticipation and has a flickering deep ball that fades, which is a concern going into the next level.
It just remains to be seen if he can go to the next level, in the NFL or CFL.