Diego Pavia, a standout quarterback from Vanderbilt and Heisman finalist, is not expected to be drafted high in the NFL Draft despite his impressive college performance. His college success may not translate into a favorable draft position.
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Diego Pavia made himself a college football superstar by leading an incredible turnaround at Vanderbilt.
That doesn't necessarily translate into a high NFL Draft slot for the Vandy QB, though.
It was no surprise that Pavia wasn't drafted in Thursday night's first round. And it would be a bit of a surprise if he went in Friday's second or third rounds, too.
Pavia is one of those guys whose college production and swagger doesn't automatically lead to the NFL.
For those who watched Pavia make magic happen at the NCAA level, it's a bit of a bummer.
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It's not just about his height, but that doesn't help Pavia.
He measured just 5-foot-9 and 7/8 at the Senior Bowl.
For reference, Panthers QB Bryce Young measured 5 feet, 10 inches and one-eighth of an inch at the NFL Combine.
Kyler Murray is also listed at 5-foot-10.
Russell Wilson is 5-foot-11. played in the NFL listed at 6-feet even.
Diego Pavia's college performance and charisma do not guarantee a high draft position, as NFL teams may prioritize different attributes.
Diego Pavia led a significant turnaround at Vanderbilt, earning recognition as a college football superstar and a Heisman finalist.
The NFL Draft occurs over several days, and Pavia is not expected to be selected in the first round, with uncertainty surrounding his chances in the second or third rounds.
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The shortest QBs ever in the NFL appear to be Eddie LeBaron and Davey O'Brien, who were both 5-foot-7 and played a long, long time ago.
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Pavia's swagger and moxie can't make up for all of that.
He's also one of those guys with good but not great arm talent, and serious toughness that allowed his mobility to play up at the college level.
Pavia could make plays in the NFL, too. But he's loud and has risk, and that will mean he doesn't get picked too early, particularly because he's short.