Robert Griffin III delivered a reality check to Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia this week following the backlash over Pavia’s reaction to finishing as Heisman Trophy runner-up.
The former Heisman winner addressed Pavia’s public criticism of voters and comments about Indiana and winner Fernando Mendoza on his Outta Pocket podcast.
Pavia drew criticism after blasting Heisman voters publicly. The response sparked debate about his maturity and public perception as he prepares for the NFL Draft.
Griffin framed his message as advice rather than condemnation.
Diego Pavia’s off field antics are hurting his draft stock. Pavia is a talented player and his teammates love playing for him, but his behavior off the field on Heisman weekend has NFL decision makers telling me they are concerned that they can trust him in the building at all. pic.twitter.com/9io9YIfg8C
— Robert Griffin III (@RGIII) December 18, 2025
“For Diego Pavia, he has to decide how does he want to be perceived publicly and how does he want to be perceived of being his true self,” Griffin said. “Because if his true self is partying, drinking, F-everybody, F-this, F-that, he’s going to F his way out the league.”
Griffin stressed his concern stems from Pavia’s talent and impact at Vanderbilt. The program rarely finds itself in the national spotlight.
“Don’t undercut yourself, young man,” Griffin said. “Be smart.”
Griffin’s wife Grete also urged Pavia to consider long-term consequences. This prompted Griffin to explain what NFL teams value most in quarterbacks.
“To be a franchise quarterback, you have to act like a franchise quarterback,” Griffin said. “If teams can’t trust that you’re going to win with grace and also lose with grace, then they don’t feel like you deserve their grace.”
Scouts already scrutinize factors like Pavia’s height. Griffin noted that adding off-field concerns only complicates the evaluation process.
But the message centered on support.
“You are so talented, you have such a bright future,” Griffin said. “Make them talk about how awesome you are on the field, not how terrible or childish you are off of it.”
Pavia appeared on The Pivot Podcast to make his case to NFL teams. “I can win wherever I go,” Pavia said. “I just need a chance.”
As his profile continues to rise, how Pavia responds next may matter almost as much as his on-field performance.
