NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Diego Pavia expressed his excitement on social media following a federal judge’s decision to grant him a preliminary injunction, which allows the standout quarterback to participate in the 2025 college football season. His jubilant response mirrored his celebration after leading Vanderbilt to a memorable victory against then-No. 1 Alabama last October. Pavia’s post included a spirited proclamation accompanied by a 100 emoji, capturing his elation.
U.S. District Judge William L. Campbell’s ruling not only favors Pavia but also prohibits the NCAA from penalizing Vanderbilt or any institution he may choose to play for in his additional fifth season. During a recent hearing, the judge inquired about the readiness of the involved attorneys for a trial and the impending transfer portal deadline that concludes on December 28.
In his written opinion, Campbell highlighted the remarkable achievements Vanderbilt has accomplished under Pavia’s leadership, including victories against significant rivals like Alabama and Auburn. This success has propelled the team to its first bowl game appearance since 2018. Furthermore, Pavia projected he could earn over $1 million in NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals during the 2025-26 season.
The judge outlined that existing NCAA regulations rendered Pavia ineligible to compete in Division I football in 2025 due to his initial enrollment at a junior college. However, Campbell was not convinced by the NCAA’s rationale regarding the eligibility criteria that limit athletes transitioning from junior colleges to three or four years. He pointed out that the NCAA does not initiate the eligibility clock for athletes from preparatory schools, even if they compete against junior colleges or similar institutions.
“Considering the disparate treatment of other athletes with equal or greater post-secondary experience, the NCAA’s justification for its eligibility rules to avoid age and experience gaps lacks validity,” Campbell remarked in his judgment. He emphasized the evolution of the NCAA’s eligibility rules over time, transitioning from prohibiting freshman participation to the introduction of the redshirt option. The judge affirmed Pavia has a strong chance of success at trial, stating the NCAA’s policies could be viewed as anti-competitive restraints under the Sherman Act.
Pavia initiated legal action seeking a fifth season on November 8 in the Middle District of Tennessee. He has also enrolled in a master’s program for legal studies at Vanderbilt, making preparations in case he was granted the injunction.
Ryan Downton, Pavia’s attorney from the Texas Trial Group, expressed gratitude for the court’s prompt decision. He issued a statement noting the NCAA’s struggle to adapt to the NIL landscape, which has imposed unreasonably restrictive terms on college athletes. Downton believes the ruling could potentially pave the way for other former junior college players to secure additional years of eligibility without the need for litigation.
After graduating from Volcano Vista High School in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Pavia did not receive offers from any Football Bowl Subdivision programs. Instead, he enrolled at New Mexico Military Institute in 2020, which the NCAA did not count towards his eligibility due to pandemic-related circumstances. Leading the junior college to a national championship in 2021, Pavia subsequently joined New Mexico State in 2022 and contributed to the team winning ten games in 2023.
This season saw Pavia earning the Conference USA Offensive Player of the Year title. He also transitioned to Vanderbilt this offseason, following head coach Jerry Kill and offensive coordinator Tim Beck. Pavia’s influence has been instrumental in Vanderbilt achieving a 6-6 record. The Commodores are poised to compete against Georgia Tech on December 27 in the Birmingham Bowl, marking their first bowl game since 2018. Notably, Vanderbilt climbed into the AP Top 25 rankings twice this season, with the victory over Alabama ending a lengthy 60-game winless streak against AP top-5 teams.
Vanderbilt head coach Clark Lea expressed his satisfaction with the ruling, highlighting the positive impact it has on Pavia and the football program. “I couldn’t be happier for Diego to continue his college journey. It’s great news for him and for our game,” Lea stated, expressing anticipation for what lies ahead for Pavia and Vanderbilt football.
Downton clarified that the court’s decision does not impose restrictions on where Pavia can play in 2025. Recently, Pavia has been actively participating in practice as the Commodores prepare for their upcoming bowl game, as showcased in videos shared by Vanderbilt. Downton added that Pavia has a deep affection for Vanderbilt and Coach Lea and anticipates that with the right NIL arrangement, Pavia is likely to remain in the program for as long as he is eligible, provided Coach Kill and Tim Beck continue to lead the team in Nashville.