Skip Bayless Advocates for Diego Pavia as Ravens' QB Solution
Former Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia may not currently hold an NFL position, but that hasn’t deterred sports commentator Skip Bayless from advocating for his return to the field. As the Baltimore Ravens prepare to face the Jacksonville Jaguars on Thursday Night Football, Bayless boldly asserted that the Ravens would have a better chance of winning with Pavia under center, despite the team having released him earlier this year.
Bayless's comments come at a critical time for the Ravens, who are grappling with significant injuries to their quarterback roster. After Baltimore signed Pavia as an undrafted free agent following the 2026 NFL Draft, his stint with the team was short-lived, ending when he was waived on July 23. The Ravens opted to move forward with other quarterbacks, a decision that now raises eyebrows given the current circumstances.
With both Lamar Jackson and Tyler Huntley placed on injured reserve due to injuries sustained against the Buffalo Bills, the Ravens are now relying on undrafted rookie Joe Fagnano to lead the offense. Fagnano's performance in the previous game against Buffalo, where he completed just 10 of 21 passes for 91 yards and threw an interception, has only intensified the scrutiny on the Ravens' quarterback choices.
Evaluating Pavia's potential as a starter
Bayless's endorsement of Pavia is particularly noteworthy considering the context of his collegiate achievements. During his final season at Vanderbilt, Pavia led the Commodores to their first 10-win season and finished second in the Heisman Trophy voting. He completed an impressive 70% of his passes and threw for 29 touchdowns, showcasing the improvisational skills that made him a standout player in college football. However, concerns about his size and transition to the professional level have clouded his NFL prospects.
When the Noise Dies Down
Despite being out of the league, Pavia has expressed interest in continuing his football career, potentially through the United Football League, which keeps the door open for future opportunities. The current quarterback crisis in Baltimore adds an intriguing layer to his situation. While it remains uncertain whether Pavia would outperform the Ravens' current options, Bayless's strong belief in his abilities highlights the lingering faith some have in the former Vanderbilt star.
As the Ravens navigate their quarterback challenges, Pavia's absence becomes even more compelling. His college career demonstrated resilience in the face of doubt, but the path to reclaiming an NFL spot is fraught with obstacles. The struggles of Fagnano against the Jaguars may only amplify the conversation around Pavia's potential, making it a topic worth watching as the season progresses.
