Eric DeCosta Loves Diego Pavia’s ‘Grit,’ Sets Up No. 3 Quarterback Competition Diego Pavia, a former state champion wrestler and Heisman Trophy finalist, has joined the Baltimore Ravens’ undrafted rookie class for 2026, setting up a competitive battle for the No. 3 quarterback role behind Lamar Jackson and Tyler Huntley. General Manager Eric DeCosta confirmed Pavia’s signing during an appearance on "The Lounge" podcast, praising the quarterback’s resilience and performance. Pavia, who played college football at Vanderbilt, was a standout performer despite going undrafted. Last season, he threw for 3,539 yards and 29 touchdowns while also rushing for 862 yards and 10 scores. His achievements earned him the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm award and a spot as SEC Offensive Player of the Year. However, his 5-foot-10 frame and a controversial post about not winning the Heisman Trophy—later apologized for—led to him being overlooked by NFL teams. DeCosta highlighted Pavia’s “phenomenal” season, emphasizing his “competitive desire and grit.” The Ravens’ decision to sign Pavia was part of a broader strategy to bolster their quarterback depth, with the team also reportedly agreeing to sign undrafted quarterback Joe Fagnano. Fagnano, a 6-foot-3 prospect from Connecticut, had a strong final season with 3,448 yards, 28 touchdowns, and a 69% completion rate. While Fagnano is seen as a solid option, Pavia’s unique background and performance have positioned him as a key contender. Pavia’s journey to football began with wrestling, where he won the 195-pound state title in high school. Despite being a no-star recruit, he chose football over wrestling, securing a partial scholarship from Nebraska before transferring to New Mexico Military Institute. There, he led his team to a 12-1 record and a junior college national championship.#baltimore_ravens #eric_decosta #vanderbilt #diego_pavia #clark_lea
Baltimore Ravens Add Undrafted QBs Diego Pavia, Joe Fagnano Ahead of Minicamp The Baltimore Ravens have officially signed undrafted quarterback Diego Pavia and Connecticut quarterback Joe Fagnano, securing their spots on the team’s roster ahead of the upcoming rookie minicamp. The moves were finalized on Tuesday, three days before the minicamp, which is set to begin on Friday. The Ravens, who had additional roster space, aimed to give both players an equal opportunity to compete for the No. 3 quarterback position in the wake of established starters Lamar Jackson and Tyler Huntley. General Manager Eric DeCosta expressed confidence in the team’s current quarterback depth while emphasizing the importance of competition. Speaking to WBAL Radio, DeCosta highlighted Pavia’s talent, stating, “I think the young man is a talented player. I’m excited to see what he brings this weekend, and there will be a competition. We feel really good about Lamar and Tyler. After that, it’s basically a contest to see who the best man is.” The Ravens plan to evaluate both Pavia and Fagnano during the minicamp, with the ultimate decision on their futures pending further performance assessments. Diego Pavia, a standout from Vanderbilt, has drawn significant attention for his collegiate career. He became the first Heisman Trophy finalist to go undrafted in 12 years, a distinction that underscores his elite status despite not being selected in the NFL draft. Pavia led Vanderbilt to its first 10-win season in school history, finishing with a 10-3 record. His performance was marked by exceptional production, including 29 touchdown passes and 10 rushing touchdowns, which earned him first-team All-American honors and the SEC Offensive Player of the Year award.#baltimore_ravens #eric_decosta #vanderbilt #diego_pavia #joe_fagnano
Ravens Signing Veteran Center Danny Pinter The Baltimore Ravens have reportedly agreed to sign veteran center Danny Pinter, marking a significant move to bolster their offensive line following the loss of Pro Bowler Tyler Linderbaum in free agency. According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the deal is a one-year contract with a maximum value of $2.75 million, as detailed by The Athletic’s Jeff Zrebiec. Pinter, 29, has spent the past six seasons with the Indianapolis Colts, where he has played in 77 games and made 10 starts. While he has primarily served as a backup to four-time Pro Bowler Ryan Kelly, Pinter has also filled in at right guard and could contribute as a sixth offensive lineman. Last season, he backed up rookie Tanor Bortolini, who transitioned from guard to center. Despite his role as a backup, Pinter has shown potential to become a full-time starter, particularly with a change of scenery. The Colts have long maintained one of the NFL’s top offensive lines, but Pinter, a fifth-round pick out of Ball State in 2020, has yet to secure a starting role. The Ravens believe his experience and versatility could make him a valuable asset in their pursuit of a strong offensive line. The Ravens were disappointed to lose Linderbaum, who had been a key part of their lineup, but they remain confident in their ability to develop young talent. New Offensive Line Coach/Run Game Coordinator Dwayne Ledford has led the team’s efforts to cultivate linemen, and Pinter’s arrival adds depth to the competition for the starting center position. Pinter would join Corey Bullock, Linderbaum’s backup from last season, and potentially Jovaughn Gwyn, with whom the Ravens recently reached a deal, as the top contenders for the starting role. The team may also explore the draft to find a long-term replacement for Linderbaum.#indianapolis_colts #baltimore_ravens #eric_decosta #danny_pinter #tyler_linderbaum
Giants Target Former Ravens CB Ar'Darius Washington The New York Giants are reportedly set to sign former Baltimore Ravens cornerback Ar'Darius Washington to a one-year contract during the 2026 free agency period. According to Jordan Schultz, the Giants are expected to pursue the versatile defensive back, who has been a key contributor for the Ravens despite his limited playing time in recent seasons. The move adds to a growing list of Ravens players potentially joining the Giants as the team continues to reshape its roster following significant changes in coaching and personnel. The Ravens have undergone a major overhaul this offseason, including the hiring of a new head coach, offensive coordinator, and defensive coordinator, as well as the departure of several key players. While the team is not embarking on a complete rebuild, the roster has seen notable departures, particularly on the defensive side. General Manager Eric DeCosta is expected to use the draft capital accumulated from these departures to replenish critical positions. Washington’s potential signing would further bolster the Giants’ defensive depth, especially with their current secondary facing questions about consistency and production. Washington, 26, has primarily served as a backup strong safety for the Ravens but has also contributed as a nickel cornerback and slot defender. His versatility has made him a valuable asset, particularly in situations requiring coverage flexibility. However, his playing time has been limited due to his role as a backup and the presence of younger players in the secondary. The Giants, looking to strengthen their defensive backfield, could see Washington as a potential starter if he can secure a larger role in New York. Washington’s career has been marked by resilience and adaptability.#baltimore_ravens #new_york_giants #free_agency #ardarius_washington #eric_decosta
