Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia issued a public apology Sunday after a social media post criticizing Heisman Trophy voters drew widespread attention following his second-place finish in the 2025 race.
Pavia finished runner-up to Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza for college football’s most prestigious individual award. Shortly after the ceremony, Pavia posted an Instagram story that included the phrase “F-all the voters,” followed by a message about loyalty to family. The post quickly went viral, which didn't sit well with many supporters.
Pavia later addressed the situation in a statement on social media, calling his actions “disrespectful” and acknowledging he let emotions get the better of him.
“Being a part of the Heisman ceremony last night as a finalist was such an honor,” Pavia wrote. “As a competitor, just like in everything I do, I wanted to win. To be so close to my dream and come up short was painful. I didn’t handle those emotions well at all and did not represent myself the way I wanted to.”
Pavia apologized directly to voters and praised his fellow finalists, including Mendoza, Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love and Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin.
Being a part of the Heisman ceremony last night as a finalist was such an honor. As a competitor, just like in everything I do I wanted to win. To be so close to my dream and come up short was painful. I didn’t handle those emotions well at all and did not represent myself the…
— Diego Pavia (@diegopavia02) December 15, 2025
“Fernando Mendoza is an elite competitor and a deserving winner of the award,” Pavia wrote. “I have nothing but respect for his accomplishments.”
The graduate transfer also reflected on his path to success, citing years of doubt and the support of his family, teammates and coaches. He said he did not want the moment to distract from what Vanderbilt accomplished this season.
Pavia completed 71.2% of his passes for 3,192 yards and an SEC-leading 27 touchdowns during the regular season, while adding 826 rushing yards and nine scores. He led Vanderbilt to its first 10-win season and a second straight bowl appearance.
The Commodores will face Iowa in the ReliaQuest Bowl on Dec. 31.
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