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Vanderbilt University quarterback Diego Pavia has initiated legal action against the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), arguing that the organization's rules breach antitrust laws and inhibit his ability to earn money using his name, image, and likeness (NIL). Pavia’s lawsuit claims that these regulations unfairly prevent him from receiving NIL compensation due to his prior enrollment in junior colleges.

Pavia's football journey began at New Mexico Military Institute, where he enrolled in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic after receiving no Division I football offers upon graduating from high school. During his time there, Pavia played only eight games in a truncated season, without any chance to earn NIL compensation. He later transferred to New Mexico State University, where he excelled as the starting quarterback and was honored as the 2023 Conference USA Offensive Player of the Year.

After two successful years at New Mexico State, Pavia moved to Vanderbilt University. His performance at Vanderbilt was notable, leading the team to notable victories over Alabama and Auburn and making them eligible for a bowl game for the first time since 2018.

The lawsuit asserts that NCAA's bylaws violate the Sherman Act by restricting Pavia’s opportunity to make NIL earnings because of his previous junior college enrollment. According to the court filing, had Pavia played any other sport or chosen a different path after high school, his eligibility for NIL compensation in his fourth year would not be obstructed. This distinction in NCAA rules, the lawsuit argues, is unjust and detrimental to athletes like Pavia who take the junior college route.

As the case moves forward, its outcome could have significant implications for NCAA bylaws and the future of student-athlete compensation, especially for those who begin their athletic careers at junior colleges.