One of the surprising twists in this year's NFL Draft was the snub of former Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia. Despite finishing runner-up in Heisman voting last season, the 24-year-old was surprisingly left undrafted despite his credentials.

Size was seen as the reason in Pavia's case. As pointed out by Jacob Camenker ofUSA Today, he measured 5-9 7/8 inches at the Senior Bowl and just over 5-10 at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine.

That meant that despite his talent, questions were in the air on how his lack of height could make him click in the pro football ranks.

Despite being passed up, Pavia still has a shot at making it to the NFL. The latest update on him is that he was given aminicamp invite by the Baltimore Ravensbut on a tryout basis. There is no assurance but it is an opportunity for the 2023 CUSA Offensive Player of the Year.

If he is successful, Pavia may get a three-year contract for his efforts. However, he will have to grind it out if he hopes to crack the 53-man roster of that team.

Despite the tall odds, Pavia needs all the backing he can get to make it. And ironically, there is already one pushing for him to succeed.

Deion Sanders is publicly rooting for the 24-year-old, confident that Pavia deserves a shot at playing pro football. Right now, the NFL door remains open for the former Vanderbilt QB. Coach Prime believes the 2025 SN College Football Player of the Year has a good shot at playing in the NFL or some other league.

'I believe in you my man! Stay strong and don't let up,' Sanders posted on X (formerly Twitter). 'Show them what time it is and never allow them to forget. Much love & God bless you.'

@diegopavia02“I BELIEVE IN YOU MY MAN! Stay strong and don’t let up. Show them what time it is and never allow them to forget. Much Love & God bless you.#PRIME

Sanders is no stranger to seeing gifted players sliding down or being overlooked. As far as this year's NFL Draft, the Colorado Buffaloes coach still kept tabs on this year's class despite previously saying he would not watch it.

Source: International Business Times UK