The Baltimore Ravens have signed polarizing undrafted quarterback Diego Pavia, and head coach Jesse Minter is making it clear: the job is his to win.
Minter challenged the former Vanderbilt star to prove himself during training camp, telling reporters, 'So now he's in the door and it's like, 'Show us what you can do.''
Pavia is projected to compete for the third quarterback spot behind starter Lamar Jackson and backup Tyler Huntley. The SEC Offensive Player of the Year threw for 3,539 yards and 29 touchdowns last season, leading Vanderbilt to a 10-3 record.
Despite his success, Pavia went undrafted - the first Heisman Trophy finalist not selected since 2014. He finished second in the Heisman voting, losing to Indiana's Fernando Mendoza, and later apologized for an expletive-laced social media outburst aimed at voters.
Minter acknowledged Pavia's past controversies but emphasized his work ethic. 'He is showing up early every day and working really hard,' Minter said. The challenge is now on the field.