Former Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia waived by Ravens, Lions floated as potential landing spot
Quarterback Diego Pavia, a former Vanderbilt University star and Heisman Trophy runner-up, was recently waived by the Baltimore Ravens. This move occurred before the Ravens’ full-squad training camp practices were set to begin. Pavia is now seeking a new team, and the Detroit Lions have been suggested as a possible destination.
The Ravens waived Pavia to create a roster spot for veteran center Ethan Pocic. Pavia had been a long shot to make the Baltimore roster, as the team reportedly viewed him as the fifth-best quarterback on their depth chart. The Ravens’ quarterback room is expected to include starter Lamar Jackson and presumed backup Tyler Huntley, with the competition for the third quarterback spot narrowed to Skylar Thompson and Joe Fagnano.
Lions’ Quarterback Depth and Pavia’s Potential Fit
The Detroit Lions currently have Jared Goff as their starting quarterback, who has maintained good health throughout his career with both the Los Angeles Rams and the Lions. However, concerns exist regarding the team’s backup options. Teddy Bridgewater and Luke Altmyer are the current insurance behind Goff on the Lions’ roster.
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 is described as lacking high upside due to mediocre physical traits. This situation highlights a potential need for the Lions to focus on acquiring a high-caliber backup, especially given the challenging schedule they face this year.
The Lions are set to encounter several notable quarterbacks, both within and outside their division. Divisional opponents include Kyler Murray/J.J. McCarthy, Caleb Williams, and Jordan Love. Outside the division, they are scheduled to face Drake Maye and Josh Allen. Maye was ranked as a top quarterback for the last season, while Allen is recognized for his dynamic play.
Pavia’s Skills and Cultural Alignment
Pavia’s skill set could potentially address some of the Lions’ needs. He possesses strong physical upside, including effective rushing ability, a trait not prominently featured in Goff or the other quarterbacks on the Lions’ roster. This rushing capability could allow the Lions to incorporate gadget-type plays, similar to how the New Orleans Saints have utilized Taysom Hill in the past. If Pavia were to start due to a Goff injury, his rushing could also complement running back Jahmyr Gibbs, potentially creating a challenging read-option scheme for opposing defenses.
Additionally, Pavia is noted for his quick release, which could enable efficient ball distribution to the Lions’ playmakers. One potential concern is Pavia’s 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’s previous experience with the Arizona Cardinals and Kyler Murray, who is also a shorter passer, suggests he could effectively work with Pavia’s physical attributes.
Beyond his on-field abilities, the Lions’ team culture under head coach Dan Campbell could also be beneficial for Pavia. Pavia has been associated with off-the-field antics in the past, and the Lions’ established tough culture might provide the environment he needs to succeed. The move could be mutually beneficial, offering Pavia a new opportunity and the Lions a potential solution for their quarterback depth.
Pavia is now free to sign with another NFL team before training camp officially begins.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
