Pavia agent quells viral no-rep confusion
Malki Kawa, agent for Heisman Trophy runner-up Diego Pavia, told fans on social media to "stop the stupidity" after the Vanderbilt quarterback's remark about lacking representation drew widespread attention. Kawa, founder of First Round Management, clarified that Pavia managed his own name, image and likeness deals during college but signed with the agency for his NFL career in January. The comment originated during Pavia's appearance on Jon Gruden's Barstool Sports show "Gruden's QB Class."
Pavia discussed his decision to return to Vanderbilt after the 2024 season, explaining he negotiated an NIL deal directly with the program's general manager. "No, I'm representing myself. I didn't think it was fair that someone was going to represent me and take 5 to 10%. Ain't nobody taking my money," Pavia told Gruden when asked about an agent. Kawa's post on X emphasized: "He didn’t have an NIL AGENT. I am his agent for the nfl."
Pavia posted 3,539 passing yards with 29 touchdowns and eight interceptions in his standout Vanderbilt season, adding 862 rushing yards and 10 scores. A Heisman runner-up, he helped Vanderbilt to victories including over Kentucky and a ReliaQuest Bowl matchup against Iowa.
Pavia visited the Carolina Panthers on Tuesday and projects as a late-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
