Vanderbilt Commodores quarterback Diego Pavia, who engineered a historic 10-win season including a landmark victory over Alabama, expressed strong interest in joining the Las Vegas Raiders during a recent livestream. The dual-threat standout amassed 3,192 passing yards, 36 total touchdowns, and 826 rushing yards, earning the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award and becoming the first Commodores player nominated for the Heisman Trophy.
Pavia, facing Heisman rivals like Indiana's Fernando Mendoza, Ohio State's Julian Sayin, and Notre Dame's Jeremiyah Love, named the Raiders as his top choice to pair with defensive star Maxx Crosby amid their disappointing season and Geno Smith's uncertain future. Despite concerns over his age turning 24 by draft day after stints at New Mexico Military Institute and New Mexico State Pavia's grit and experience position him as a potential late-round gem, akin to Tom Brady.
Upcoming bowl action and Senior Bowl participation offer chances to showcase his skills, with Pavia's confidence and leadership setting him apart in a competitive quarterback class.