The Baltimore Ravens released quarterback Diego Pavia on Thursday, just one day ahead of the scheduled arrival of rookies for training camp. Pavia, who was the Heisman Trophy runner-up last season at Vanderbilt, had signed with the Ravens as an undrafted free agent in April. He was aiming to compete for the third quarterback spot behind two-time NFL MVP Lamar Jackson and veteran Tyler Huntley. Instead, that position will now be contested by Skylar Thompson and Joe Fagnano.
Pavia’s college career included leading Vanderbilt to its first-ever 10-win season, throwing for 3,539 yards and 29 touchdowns. However, concerns over his relatively short stature—he stands at 5-foot-10—may have impacted his prospects at the professional level.
Meanwhile, in Las Vegas, quarterback Fernando Mendoza, the top overall pick in this year’s NFL Draft, finalized a four-year contract worth $57.27 million with the Raiders. The deal includes a fifth-year team option. Mendoza is the last of the Raiders’ 10 draft selections to sign. During organized team activities and minicamp, he operated with the third-string offense but is expected to have an expanded role when training camp opens Wednesday.
Mendoza arrives in the NFL following a standout collegiate career, capped by winning the Heisman Trophy and leading Indiana University to its first national championship. The Raiders enter camp with veteran Kirk Cousins, who secured a $20 million guaranteed free-agent contract, as the presumed starting quarterback.
In other team updates, Las Vegas pass rusher Maxx Crosby announced on his podcast he would join rookies at training camp. Crosby has been recovering from knee surgery. Additionally, Arizona Cardinals veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett, who started the final 12 games last season, participated in a recent team workout despite not practicing with the team during the offseason amid contract frustrations. His appearance hints that a new agreement may be imminent.
The Carolina Panthers suffered a significant setback when outside linebacker Nic Sceurton sustained a torn ACL in his right knee on the first day of training camp, effectively ending his season, according to an individual familiar with the injury who spoke on condition of anonymity due to the team’s lack of official comment.
The Tennessee Titans placed two starters, right tackle JC Latham and safety Amani Hooker, on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. Players designated on the PUP list during training camp can be activated at any time, but the Titans have not disclosed the reasons behind those moves or the expected timelines for their return.