The Baltimore Ravens are wasting no time in solidifying their roster depth as the 2026 NFL offseason moves into its next critical phase. On the eve of their scheduled rookie minicamp, the Ravens sign undrafted QBs Diego Pavia and Joe Fagnano to bolster their quarterback room and provide competition during the upcoming practice sessions. These additions come as the team looks to evaluate young talent behind two-time MVP Lamar Jackson and established backup Tyler 'Snoop' Huntley.
The Arrival of Heisman Runner-Up Diego Pavia
Perhaps the most high-profile name among the 2026 undrafted free agent signings is Diego Pavia. Pavia arrives in Baltimore following a collegiate career that saw him become a household name in the SEC and a national sensation. While many remember his historic upset over top-ranked Alabama in 2024, it was his 2025 campaign at Vanderbilt University that truly elevated his stock. Pavia finished the 2025 season as the Heisman Trophy runner-up and was named the SEC Offensive Player of the Year, proving he could compete at the highest level of college football.
Pavia’s journey to the NFL is a testament to perseverance. Before his legendary stint with the Vanderbilt Commodores, he played at New Mexico State, where he led the Aggies to significant victories. Standing at 6-foot-0 and weighing approximately 200 pounds, Pavia has often been compared to mobile quarterbacks who rely on their instincts and playmaking ability outside the pocket. During his final season at Vanderbilt, he demonstrated elite passing efficiency to go along with his established rushing threat, making him an intriguing fit for the Ravens' offensive system which prioritizes dual-threat capability.
Joe Fagnano: A Traditional Arm from UConn
Joining Pavia in the quarterback room is Joe Fagnano, a product of the UConn Huskies. Fagnano’s path to the professional ranks involved a transition from the University of Maine to the University of Connecticut, where he sought to prove himself against higher-level competition. Although his early tenure at UConn was hampered by injury, his recovery and subsequent performance showed the Ravens' scouting department enough potential to offer him a spot on the 2026 roster heading into minicamp.
Fagnano offers a different physical profile than Pavia. As a more traditional pocket passer with a strong arm and disciplined footwork, Fagnano provides the Ravens' coaching staff with a diverse look during drills. His experience as a multi-year starter at the collegiate level is a valuable asset, as he brings a level of maturity and field vision that is necessary for navigating a complex NFL playbook. By choosing to sign undrafted QBs Diego Pavia and Joe Fagnano, the Ravens are ensuring a high level of competition for the developmental spots on the roster.
Roster Dynamics: Competing Behind Jackson and Huntley
The decision to add two undrafted quarterbacks is a standard but vital move for the Baltimore front office. With Lamar Jackson firmly entrenched as the franchise cornerstone and Tyler 'Snoop' Huntley serving as the primary veteran backup, the Ravens need additional arms to handle the high volume of repetitions during rookie minicamp and subsequent OTAs. Huntley’s familiarity with the system makes him the clear QB2, but the battle for the third spot or a practice squad position will be intense.
Historically, the Ravens have had success identifying talent in the undrafted free agent market. While the odds are long for any undrafted player to make the final 53-man roster, the practice squad offers a viable path for players like Pavia and Fagnano to continue their development. The dual-threat capabilities of Pavia, in particular, mirror some of the schematic elements the Ravens utilize with Jackson and Huntley, allowing the scout team to better simulate opposing mobile quarterbacks during the regular season.
What to Expect at the 2026 Ravens Rookie Minicamp
The Ravens' rookie minicamp is scheduled to take place this weekend, providing the first opportunity for the coaching staff to see their 2026 draft class and undrafted signings in action. For Pavia and Fagnano, the goal is simple: learn the playbook quickly and show enough flashes of talent to earn an invitation to the full training camp in July.
Key areas of focus for the new quarterbacks will include:
- Command of the Huddle: Demonstrating leadership and clear communication with fellow rookies.
- Accuracy and Timing: Building chemistry with newly drafted wide receivers and tight ends.
- Adaptability: Adjusting to the speed of NFL defenders and the complexity of professional defensive schemes.
As the Ravens sign undrafted QBs Diego Pavia and Joe Fagnano, the organization continues its thorough approach to roster construction, ensuring no stone is left unturned in the pursuit of another deep postseason run in the AFC.
Sources & Original Reporting