Detroit floated as potential landing spot for former Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia
Quarterback Diego Pavia is currently seeking a new team after being waived by the Baltimore Ravens. The 24-year-old, who was a Heisman Trophy runner-up, is exploring options to continue his professional football career. One potential destination that has been suggested is the Detroit Lions.
Pavia’s release from the Ravens occurred before the start of full-squad training camp practices. He had gone unselected in the 2026 NFL Draft but was signed by Baltimore as an undrafted free agent. His departure from the Ravens roster was made to accommodate veteran center Ethan Pocic.
Pavia’s Fit with the Lions
The Lions’ current quarterback situation presents an interesting possibility for Pavia. While starting quarterback Jared Goff has maintained good health throughout his career with both the Los Angeles Rams and the Lions, the team’s backup options are considered to be less robust. The current backups are Teddy Bridgewater and Luke Altmyer.
According to Nick Brinkerhoff, the Lions’ coaching staff relies on Goff to start all games. However, if Goff were to face an injury, the team’s depth at quarterback could be a concern. Bridgewater, at 33, possesses a strong football IQ, but his arm strength is noted to have diminished. Altmyer, signed as a free agent after the most recent draft, is 23, but like Bridgewater, is described as lacking high upside due to mediocre physical traits.
This scenario positions the Lions as a potentially ideal spot for Pavia. Brinkerhoff suggested that Detroit could be a “perfect spot for Pavia, given how well he fits the city and the football team’s mentality that represents it.” The Lions are reportedly looking for a high-caliber backup, especially considering the challenging lineup of opposing quarterbacks they are scheduled to face this year.
Within their division, the Lions are set to play against quarterbacks such as Kyler Murray or J.J. McCarthy, Caleb Williams, and Jordan Love, all known for their ability to execute plays both inside and outside the pocket. Outside of their division, they will also encounter quarterbacks like Drake Maye and Josh Allen. Maye was ranked highly by PFN for the previous season, while Allen is recognized for his dynamic play.
Pavia’s Unique Attributes
Pavia’s skill set could offer the Lions an advantage, particularly his rushing ability. This trait is not as prominent among the other quarterbacks on the Lions’ roster, including Goff. His rushing prowess could enable the Lions to utilize him in gadget plays, similar to how the New Orleans Saints have historically used Taysom Hill.
If Pavia were to start due to a Goff injury, his rushing skills could complement running back Jahmyr Gibbs, potentially allowing the Lions to implement read-option plays that could challenge opposing defenses. Additionally, Pavia is noted for his quick release, which could facilitate efficient ball distribution to the Lions’ playmakers.
One aspect of Pavia’s game that is sometimes viewed as a disadvantage is his height, listed at 5-foot-10, which is considered short for a quarterback. However, the Lions recently brought in Drew Petzing as their new offensive coordinator. Petzing previously worked with Kyler Murray during his time with the Arizona Cardinals. Murray is also a shorter passer, suggesting that Petzing’s experience could be beneficial in working with Pavia.
Beyond his on-field contributions, the Lions’ team culture under head coach Dan Campbell, known for its toughness, could also be a positive influence for Pavia. Pavia has reportedly been associated with immature off-field behavior, and the Lions’ established culture might provide the environment he needs to succeed. Therefore, a move to the Lions could be mutually beneficial for both Pavia and the team.
The Ravens’ decision to waive Pavia came after they determined he was the fifth-best quarterback on their roster, with Lamar Jackson and Tyler Huntley expected to make the team, and Skylar Thompson and Joe Fagnano competing for the third-string spot. The Ravens’ new coach, Jesse Minter, had familiarity with Pavia through Vanderbilt coach Clark Lea, who coached Pavia for the past two seasons.
Despite his dynamic play at Vanderbilt and his status as a Heisman Trophy runner-up, these factors did not ultimately secure his place with the Ravens after their offseason evaluations.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
