Diego Pavia Joins Deion Sanders at Colorado After NFL Struggles: “You are a real 1”

Diego Pavia Visits Colorado, Deion Sanders Responds With Public Show of Support

Diego Pavia’s NFL prospects have hit a roadblock, but his bond with Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders remains as strong as ever. After attending Colorado’s game against Utah in Boulder, the former Vanderbilt quarterback took to social media to express his gratitude for the welcome he received from Sanders and his son, Deion Sanders Jr. The gesture drew a warm, public reply from Coach Prime himself, who posted to Pavia: “Love ya, man! You are a real 1. God bless u.” The message served as a meaningful show of support for a quarterback whose professional journey has stalled before he could appear in a single regular-season NFL game.

Pavia documented his Boulder weekend extensively on social media, sharing highlights from the stadium experience and expressing enthusiasm for the environment Buffaloes fans created. In his own words, Pavia wrote: “Boulder, thank you guys, for an awesome experience. I loved the way you guys got rowdy for the ball players. I was super entertained myself, and I will definitely be back to support my guys! SKOO BUFFS.” He also directed his followers to his YouTube channel, where footage from the visit was made available, and confirmed his intention to return to support the Colorado Buffaloes in future contests.

A Relationship Rooted in Mutual Respect Dating Back to Jackson State

The connection between Pavia and Deion Sanders did not begin at Colorado — it traces back to 2022, when Sanders was still the head coach at Jackson State. At that time, Sanders extended an opportunity to Pavia, but was candid about the quarterback’s likely role: a backup behind his son, Shedeur Sanders. Unwilling to accept a secondary position, Pavia instead chose New Mexico State, later transferring to Vanderbilt ahead of the 2024 season. That decision turned out to be a career-defining one. Pavia developed into one of college football’s most compelling quarterbacks, guiding Vanderbilt to its first 10-win season in program history — a milestone achievement for a program not historically associated with gridiron success.

His breakout campaign in 2025 was statistically outstanding: 3,539 passing yards and 29 touchdowns, numbers that propelled him to second place in Heisman Trophy voting, finishing behind Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza. That college résumé generated genuine NFL buzz heading into the 2026 draft. However, Pavia went undrafted and subsequently signed with the Baltimore Ravens as an undrafted free agent in April, reportedly on a three-year, $3.1 million contract. The Ravens waived him in July to create roster space for veteran offensive lineman Ethan Pocic, leaving Pavia without an NFL contract. Sanders had already responded publicly after the draft with a message of solidarity, posting: “I BELIEVE IN YOU, MY MAN!” His latest Instagram comment reinforces that ongoing support.

What Pavia’s Colorado Visit Does — and Does Not — Signal

The visit to Boulder came shortly after Pavia revealed during a Twitch livestream that he would welcome the opportunity to play for Sanders, adding a layer of intrigue to his appearance at the Colorado game. Despite the public warmth exchanged between the two, Sanders’ Instagram response does not indicate that Pavia is being considered for a playing or coaching role within the Colorado program. The trip appears to reflect a genuine personal relationship rather than any imminent professional arrangement. Reuters has reported that the Winnipeg Blue Bombers currently hold Pavia’s negotiating rights in the Canadian Football League, which may represent his most viable immediate avenue for continuing his professional football career.

Why This Matters

Pavia’s story highlights the precarious transition that even elite college football talent must navigate when entering the professional ranks. Having finished second in Heisman Trophy voting and spearheaded a historic season at Vanderbilt, Pavia represents a case study in how quickly NFL opportunities can evaporate — even for quarterbacks with standout collegiate credentials. His continued relationship with Deion Sanders, one of college football’s most high-profile and influential coaches, keeps him in the public conversation. The CFL avenue through the Winnipeg Blue Bombers could provide the competitive exposure necessary to reignite NFL interest, a path other quarterbacks have successfully used in the past. Sanders’ repeated, public endorsements also carry reputational weight that may assist Pavia in securing future opportunities at any level of the game.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did the Baltimore Ravens waive Diego Pavia?

The Baltimore Ravens waived Pavia in July to create roster space for veteran offensive lineman Ethan Pocic. Pavia had signed with the Ravens as an undrafted free agent following the 2026 NFL Draft on a reported three-year, $3.1 million contract but was released before making a regular-season appearance.

What is Diego Pavia’s connection to Deion Sanders and Colorado?

Pavia’s relationship with Deion Sanders dates to 2022, when Sanders was coaching at Jackson State and offered Pavia a roster spot. Pavia ultimately chose a different path, but the two maintained a mutual respect. Pavia recently visited Boulder for Colorado’s game against Utah, with Sanders and Deion Sanders Jr. welcoming him and treating him, by his own account, like family.

Does Diego Pavia have any professional football options after being waived by the Ravens?

Yes. Reuters has reported that the Winnipeg Blue Bombers hold Pavia’s negotiating rights in the Canadian Football League, giving him a potential professional outlet. He has not yet secured another NFL contract as of the time of this report.