Vanderbilt QB Pavia at NFL Combine, Eyes Draft Boost

Indianapolis, Indiana - Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia, the runner-up in this season's Heisman Trophy voting, participated in the NFL Scouting Combine on Friday by addressing reporters and undergoing medical evaluations, while planning to throw passes during Saturday's on-field drills at Lucas Oil Stadium. The 24-year-old standout, projected as a late-round draft pick in April's NFL Draft, opted to skip athletic testing such as the 40-yard dash and shuttle run, reserving those for Vanderbilt's pro day on March 18.

Pavia's appearance at the four-day event, which began Thursday and runs through Sunday, comes as he seeks to elevate his draft stock amid concerns over his stature. Measured at just under 5 feet 10 inches, he faces skepticism from scouts regarding his arm strength and physical tools compared to taller prospects like Indiana's 6-foot-5 Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza, the expected top overall selection. Despite these hurdles, Pavia expressed unwavering confidence in his mental acuity and preparation. "I think my mind is just underrated, just the way I process," he told reporters. "I'm a fast processor. I'm humble, and I get my confidence from my process."