Diego Pavia Has a Real Shot at Returning to College Football — Here's How

Diego Pavia, the Vanderbilt quarterback, had a remarkable 2025 season, completing 70.6% of his passes for 3,539 yards, 29 touchdowns, and eight interceptions while also rushing for 862 yards and 10 touchdowns. His impressive performance led to numerous accolades, including first-team All-SEC, first-team All-American, and SEC Offensive Player of the Year honors, as well as being the Heisman Trophy runner-up.

Vanderbilt's historic success has sparked discussions about retiring Pavia's iconic No. 2 jersey. However, with the NCAA's newly implemented rule allowing athletes to play five years in Division I, Pavia now has a plausible path to return to college football. This newfound opportunity arises from three former Ole Miss starters who recently won a temporary restraining order, granting them the chance to return to college.

Additionally, several other college athletes have joined a lawsuit against the NCAA in a Louisiana state court, many of them football players currently contracted to NFL teams. Considering his JUCO years do not count against him, Pavia could argue he deserves a fifth Division I season. Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio suggests Pavia should strongly consider this option, as there are limited alternatives for him.

Undrafted in the 2026 NFL Draft due to concerns over his size, playing style, and maturity, Pavia could potentially command a significant salary by returning to college football. Although currently under contract with no NFL team, his NIL valuation of around $300,000 makes college football an attractive option. With his exclusive negotiation rights held by the Winnipeg Blue Bombers of the CFL, Pavia must now decide whether to return for another college season and reestablish his case to NFL teams.