With Diego Pavia’s eligibility in question and Nate Johnson transferring, Vanderbilt must act in the transfer portal to secure a QB for 2025.
find themselves at a critical juncture heading into the 2025 offseason, as uncertainty clouds the quarterback position. With Diego Pavia, the team’s 2024 starter, battling inand athletic backup Nate Johnson entering the transfer portal, head coach Clark Lea faces a pressing question: Should the Commodores aggressively pursue a quarterback in the transfer portal to stabilize their offense?
The answer is yes. Even in the best-case scenario, where Pavia wins his legal battle and returns to Vanderbilt, the Commodores would benefit from adding depth and talent to the quarterback room. If Pavia’s eligibility is denied, Vanderbilt risks entering the 2025 season without a proven option under center, forcing the team to rely on an untested group of backups or true freshman Jack Elliott.
Adding Salter would address Vanderbilt’s uncertainty at quarterback and elevate the offense to new heights. Salter’s live arm and ability to push the ball downfield would bring a vertical element that was missing with Pavia. Salter’s athleticism also makes him a constant threat on the ground, forcing defenses to account for him on every play.
Pursuing a quarterback like Salter also conveys that Vanderbilt is serious about building a competitive program. While the Commodores progressed in 2024, their trajectory could stall without stability and star power at the game’s most crucial position. Even if Salter or another premium quarterback isn’t available, the Commodores should explore the portal for a veteran presence who can challenge the starting job or, at minimum, provide a reliable safety net.
Ultimately, Vanderbilt’s approach to the transfer portal will reflect how the program intends to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of college football. With uncertainty swirling around Pavia and Johnson's departure, adding a quarterback through the portal is not just a contingency plan—it’s a necessary step to solidify the foundation for 2025 and beyond.
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