Getty Image / Johnnie Izquierdo
Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia became a college football folk hero this year after upsetting Alabama in October. The former JuCo and New Mexico State quarterback had a great year, leading Vanderbilt to a 6-6 season and a bowl berth.
Pavia was slated to be out of eligibility after this season. But, he sued the NCAA, alleging his time spent in JuCo shouldn’t count, and received a temporary injunction on the matter Wednesday, giving him a year of extra eligibility.
Pavia spent the 2020 and 2021 seasons at New Mexico Military Institute, leading them to a JuCo National Title in 2021. Then, he transferred to New Mexico State, where he spent the 2022 and 2023 seasons, helping lead the Aggies to a ten-win season in 2023. Of course, he ended up at Vanderbilt after that.
His eligibility was going to be up, but he sued, saying that his JuCo years shouldn’t count, saying his junior college stint didn’t give him any ability to earn NIL money, and that the years shouldn’t count since the NCAA doesn’t govern junior college.
A court agreed.
Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia’s motion for a preliminary injunction that would allow him to play in 2025 has been GRANTED. pic.twitter.com/4zjIjBMWhs
— Sam C. Ehrlich (@samcehrlich) December 18, 2024
What this means for the future of eligibility requirements is unknown, and the case only specifically issues a preliminary injunction to Diego Pavia. But, it at least stands to reason that other former JuCo players are going to file similar lawsuits soon.
As for Pavia, he shouted out his lawyers after the huge win in court.
My Lawyers are legit‼️
Ryan and Sal I appreciate yall!
God is good, All the time❤️— Diego Pavia (@diegopavia02) December 18, 2024
This is a huge development for Vanderbilt, as Pavia has expressed sentiments that make it seem like he will be back in Nashville next year.
On the year, Pavia had 2133 yards passing with 17 touchdowns against 4 interceptions. He added 716 yards and 6 touchdowns on the ground, as well.