Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia went undrafted in the 2026 NFL Draft, becoming the first Heisman finalist in 12 years to hear no calls. Pat McAfee praised him on social media Sunday. Despite Ravens rookie minicamp invite starting May 2, McAfee hinted at bigger chances elsewhere.
“I loved what Diego Pavia did for college ball — just an absolute sensation,” McAfee posted on social media. “I think a lot of what made him fantastic for College was also gonna be what held him back as an NFL ‘prospect’. Size, speed, style of play, personality. If he gets in a building and finds success I’d be pumped for him and his family.”
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He added, “If it doesn’t work out.. is he not the UFL QB Blueprint?Recognizable name…can move…not scared to promote. UFL’s getting 800,000 viewers a game, which is good for spring ball, can bump that a bit with some name brands aht there… I think we all assume the clips, regardless of outcome, would go for a bit. Feels like an opportune time for the UFL.. and for the Pavia show.”
Social Media Reactions
The news received mixed reactions from fans on X and Reddit. “Welcome to the UFL,” one trolled Pavia on X. “Arrogance is the reason,” another jabbed on X after undrafted status.
Reddit’s r/UnitedFootballLeague hyped McAfee: “Pat McAfee on Diego Pavia being the UFL QB blueprint,” quoting his size-speed take.
Supporters rallied, “Pavia transformed Vandy, clips will go viral in UFL,” on X. A critical response said “Heisman finalist UDFA? Size killed him,” on Reddit.
McAfee fans on social media agreed with the theory “Opportune time for Pavia show.”