NFL Fans Are Convinced Diego Pavia Just Tanked His Draft Stock In The Worst Way Possible

Pavia’s latest move leaves fans shaking their heads.

With the 2026 NFL Draft getting closer, some fans think Diego Pavia may have hurt his draft chances.

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The Vanderbilt quarterback had a great season. He became a Heisman Trophy finalist after throwing for 3,539 yards and running for 862 more. He scored 39 total touchdowns. His performance got a lot of attention.

However, he has also faced criticism for some of his behavior off the field. Now, people are talking again after he said that former NFL quarterback Johnny Manziel has been helping him during the draft process.

Pavia shared that information at the NFL Scouting Combine. He told Pro Football Talk that Manziel has been giving him advice and support.

“He’s giving me what to look out for, what it’s like, how to stay in the process. And, you know, he’s given me some good advice, for sure,” Pavia said. “And he always reaches out, too, checks up on me, makes sure I’m good, and he’s just a friend to me. He’s given me some mentorship, He’s been around me, he’s been around my family. He’s just a great person for those that really don’t know him.”

Many fans did not like what they heard.

Fans Question The Decision

Former Texas A&M quarterback Johnny Manziel (Photo By Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images)
Fans reacted fast on social media. Many pointed to Manziel’s short NFL career. He played two seasons with the Cleveland Browns. He threw for 1,675 yards with seven touchdowns and seven interceptions before he left the league.

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“Why is a failed NFL QB coaching a kid wanting to go into the NFL,” one fan asked.

“Recipe for disaster or success?” another fan wrote.

“Seriously, what could Pavia do that would make him MORE toxic to NFL teams at this point? I guess he hasn’t committed any known crimes yet… this is one of the most impressive feats of self-destruction I’ve ever seen,” another fan posted.

Manziel was once a star at Texas A&M and won the Heisman Trophy. He entered the NFL with a lot of hype, but he did not have a long or successful career. Because of that, some fans are worried that Pavia connecting himself to Manziel could hurt him at a bad time.

However, others think the mentorship could help. Manziel understands the pressure that comes with big expectations. He also knows how easily things can fall apart. Pavia could learn from his mistakes as he gets ready for the NFL.

The draft is about two months away. Teams will look at talent, stats, and character. Pavia has already proven he can perform on the field. Now he needs to show teams that he can handle the attention and pressure that come with the next level.