The path to the pros continues to take unexpected turns for Diego Pavia. While Pavia is currently focused on earning a spot in the NFL with the Baltimore Ravens after receiving a rookie minicamp invite, there’s another important piece of his professional outlook that dates back further than many realize. The Winnipeg Blue Bombers have actually held Pavia’s Canadian Football League negotiating rights since 2024.

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Unlike a recent development, Winnipeg’s connection to Pavia has been in place for some time. CFL teams often secure rights to players years in advance, identifying talent that could eventually make its way north if NFL opportunities don’t materialize.

That’s exactly the situation here. If Pavia chooses to play in the Canadian Football League, he won’t have multiple options; his exclusive negotiating rights belong to the Blue Bombers.

For now, Pavia’s focus remains firmly on the NFL. The Ravens minicamp invite gives him a chance to:

But as a tryout player, the margin for error is slim. If he doesn’t secure a roster or practice squad spot, he’ll need to quickly evaluate his next move.

If that next step leads to the CFL, the Blue Bombers present a strong landing spot. Winnipeg is one of the league’s premier organizations and could offer:

For a player like Pavia, who thrives on reps and competition, that environment could be extremely valuable.

Pavia’s journey is a reminder that success doesn’t always follow a straight line. Whether it’s the NFL or the CFL, the key is opportunity, and making the most of it when it comes.

Diego Pavia’s immediate goal is clear: earn a shot with the Ravens. But if that opportunity doesn’t turn into a roster spot, a path has already been in place since 2024. And if he heads north, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers will be ready.

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