Are NFL Teams Sleeping On Diego Pavia?
Get the full intelligence
Search transcripts, export clips, track mentions, and explore all topics from “Are NFL Teams Sleeping On Diego Pavia?” inside PodZeus.
The Sports Junkies dive into the rising buzz around Diego Pavia, the 5'10" Vanderbilt quarterback who’s generating late-round draft interest despite his height. Hosts debate whether NFL teams are undervaluing Pavia due to his stature, highlighting his impressive college resume: leading Vanderbilt to historic wins over Alabama, Auburn, LSU, and Tennessee; winning two bowl games at New Mexico State; and amassing nearly 1,700 rushing yards over two seasons. They cite John Gruden’s glowing praise, calling Pavia a 'contagious' leader with a 'great football mind' and a proven ability to win in tough environments. While acknowledging concerns about his size, durability, and 'bowling ball' running style, the hosts argue that his moxie, processing ability, and experience make him a high-upside developmental pick—especially in the late rounds. They contrast him with other mobile quarterbacks like Taysom Hill and Taylor Green, and question whether the NFL is too fixated on height when proven short quarterbacks like Drew Brees and Mike Vick have thrived. The episode also touches on Pavia’s larger-than-life personality and family drama, but concludes that his skill set and intangibles could make him a steal for a team willing to take a chance.
Diego Pavia’s 5'10" stature is being overemphasized by NFL teams despite his proven success against SEC powerhouses.
Pavia has a high football IQ, elite competitiveness, and a 'contagious' leadership vibe that coaches like John Gruden rave about.
His 1,700 rushing yards over two years and 10-win season at Vanderbilt show elite durability and playmaking ability.
Teams should prioritize processing ability and intangibles over height when evaluating quarterbacks.
Pavia is a prime late-round or undrafted free agent target for a team needing a high-motor, coachable backup or bridge starter.
Junkies Beach Bash 2026 Announcement
The hosts announce the upcoming Junkies Beach Bash in Dewey Beach, Delaware, on May 22nd, live from the Starboard, and discuss logistics and accommodations with Monty.
John Gruden’s Praise for Diego Pavia
“If you don't like Diego Pavia, you just don't like football.”
Pavia’s College Career and Impact
“He beat Alabama. He beat Auburn three times. He beat LSU. He beat Tennessee and Knoxville.”
Height Bias vs. Football Intelligence
“The most important thing to me is just how does he process?”
Pavia’s Personality, Risks, and Draft Outlook
Analysis of Pavia’s cocky demeanor, family drama, and concerns about his running style translating to the NFL, but overall support for a late-round pick.
“If you don't like Diego Pavia, you just don't like football.”
“He beat Alabama. He beat Auburn three times. He beat LSU. He beat Tennessee and Knoxville.”
“The guys that I'm playing every single Saturday are the guys you're drafting first round.”
Hosts
Diego Pavia
person
Vanderbilt University
organization
John Gruden
person
Alabama
organization
New Mexico State
organization
Main Street Bank
organization
Taylor Green
person
Dewey Beach, Delaware
place
LSU
organization
Taysom Hill
person
Incredible Start For The Nationals
The Sports Junkies • 11m • 3/31/2026
What’s Going On With Brandon Aiyuk?
The Sports Junkies • 17m • 3/31/2026
Expectations For The Commanders New Uniforms
The Sports Junkies • 17m • 3/31/2026
Tiger Woods Hasn't Pulled Out Of The Masters
The Sports Junkies • 13m • 3/31/2026
John Keim On The Latest Commanders News
The Sports Junkies • 16m • 3/31/2026
Get the full intelligence
Search transcripts, export clips, track mentions, and explore all topics from “Are NFL Teams Sleeping On Diego Pavia?” inside PodZeus.
Start discovering podcast insights today
Start with a 7-day trial and explore a growing catalog of popular podcasts. No credit card required.
No credit card required • 7-day trial • Cancel anytime
