Did Pavia Get Drafted? NFL Fans Await Rookie's Fate
Quarterback Michael Pavia's NFL Draft status became a trending search in the U.S. on Saturday as fans anxiously tracked whether the Stanford standout would be selected. The 2026 draft entered its third and final day with Pavia still available, sparking debate among analysts and supporters.
Pavia, a 6'3" pocket passer who threw for 3,200 yards last season, was projected as a potential late-round pick. His name surged in Google searches during Rounds 4-7 as teams like the Rams, Steelers, and Saints—all needing quarterback depth—prepared their selections. The draft concludes tonight in Detroit with picks 5-257.
NFL Network's Daniel Jeremiah noted Pavia's "pro-ready mechanics but limited starting experience" as possible reasons for his slide. Stanford coach Troy Taylor told ESPN this morning that multiple teams had called about signing Pavia as an undrafted free agent if he isn't selected.
The draft's quarterback class already saw six passers taken through the first four rounds, including top picks Carson Beck (Jaguars) and Quinn Ewers (Broncos). Pavia's situation mirrors 2025 when Purdue's Aidan O'Connell went undrafted but later started for the Raiders.
Fans flooded social media with reactions, with #PaviaWatch trending on X. "Guy has better tape than half these Day 3 QBs getting picked," tweeted former NFL scout Bucky Brooks. The Cardinals (pick 215) and Commanders (pick 222) are now seen as potential landing spots.
Pavia's agent confirmed to NFL.com that they've received "serious interest" from three NFC teams regardless of draft outcome. The 23-year-old quarterback remained at Stanford's draft party awaiting updates, surrounded by teammates and family.
Undrafted players can begin signing with teams immediately after the draft concludes at approximately 7:30 PM ET. NFL.com's live tracker shows Pavia as one of the most searched prospects remaining on the board entering the final 40 picks.
This marks the first time since 2019 that a Stanford quarterback hasn't been drafted by Round 5. The Pac-12 produced just two drafted QBs this year—USC's Miller Moss (Round 4) and Washington's Will Rogers (Round 6).
Update 5:12 PM ET: The Commanders selected Kentucky linebacker D'Eryk Jackson at 222, passing on Pavia. The Cardinals are now on the clock at 225 with two quarterbacks still available—Pavia and Tulane's Kai Horton.
