Diego Pavia's Pre-Draft Night Out: Cash and Controversy at Albuquerque Strip Club

Diego Pavia, the former Vanderbilt quarterback and Heisman finalist, was spotted making a splash at a strip club in Albuquerque just weeks before the NFL Draft. TMZ Sports obtained exclusive footage showing Pavia throwing cash at dancers during a late-night visit to Knockouts Gentlemen's Club.

This unexpected night out comes amid Pavia's hopes of being drafted into the NFL, a dream that ultimately went unfulfilled as he was not selected. His off-field actions and draft outcome highlight the challenges and scrutiny faced by athletes on the cusp of professional sports careers.

A Night to Remember: Pavia's Strip Club Spending Spree

On March 8, Diego Pavia arrived at Knockouts Gentlemen's Club in Albuquerque, where he spent several hours enjoying the atmosphere. Video footage reveals him enthusiastically throwing wads of cash at dancers, with all the money scattered on stage reportedly coming from Pavia himself. Witnesses say he stayed until 5 AM, marking a significant break from his draft preparations.

Draft Day Disappointment: The First Heisman Finalist Undrafted Since 2014

Despite a standout season leading Vanderbilt to a 10-3 record and earning multiple accolades, Pavia was not selected in the 2026 NFL Draft. This made him the first Heisman finalist to go undrafted since Jordan Lynch in 2014. Scouts cited concerns about his size and character, which may have contributed to teams passing on him.

Next Steps: Rookie Mini-Camp Invitation and Potential Opportunities

Although undrafted, Pavia received an invitation to the Baltimore Ravens' rookie mini-camp, offering him a chance to prove his worth at the professional level. This opportunity could allow him to learn from established stars like former MVP Lamar Jackson and potentially carve out a spot on the team.

Controversies and Character Questions

Pavia's journey has not been without controversy. Earlier this year, he publicly expressed frustration with Heisman voters, posting a message that included profanity directed at them. He later apologized for the outburst, but the incident may have influenced perceptions of his character among NFL scouts.

Looking Ahead: Can Pavia Turn Setbacks Into Success?

Diego Pavia's story is far from over. While his pre-draft night out and undrafted status have drawn attention, the invitation to the Ravens' mini-camp presents a critical opportunity. If he can leverage this chance and demonstrate his skills and professionalism, Pavia could still make an impact in the NFL.