Because of his history as a fearless, outspoken star quarterback whose supreme confidence propelled him into the spotlight in Nashville, Pavia’s addition will undoubtedly attract attention, especially during the quiet summer months leading up to preseason action. His mere presence on Baltimore’s roster will feed content-hungry news cycles throughout offseason activities in a fashion similar to Shedeur Sanders‘ first few months in Cleveland.
But legitimate football questions remain. At 5-foot-10 and 207 pounds, Pavia doesn’t fit the mold of a traditional pro quarterback. His lack of height might require schematic adjustments to enable him to succeed, and his arm strength doesn’t raise evaluators’ eyebrows.
Pavia’s arrival doesn’t exactly break Baltimore’s talent acquisition mold, though. Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta once took a chance on a similarly styled quarterback, Penn State’s Trace McSorley, spending a sixth-round pick on the former Nittany Lions star in 2019 and slotting him behind Jackson and Robert Griffin III.
At 6 feet and 202 pounds, McSorley’s Day 3 selection could be justified. Pavia’s value, meanwhile, exists in his moxie and his nature as a gamer who won plenty of contests at Vanderbilt.
Fortunately, after turning back to veteran Tyler Huntley for second and third stints when in need of an experienced quarterback in the last two seasons, Baltimore wisely signed Huntley this offseason to serve as Jackson’s trusted backup. It’s likely they won’t need Pavia at all — if he makes the roster.
However, expect to hear plenty about Pavia in the weeks and months ahead. We’ll see if he can capitalize on his opportunity in Baltimore.
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