“The standout sophomore has faced restrictions during the Gators’ spring practices.”
DJ Lagway’s Injuries Cloud Florida’s Spring Outlook
Florida quarterback DJ Lagway’s impressive freshman campaign was key in helping head coach Billy Napier secure a fourth year at the helm. With expectations high heading into the 2025 season and Lagway poised to take over as the full-time starter, his limited participation this spring has raised concerns.
According to USA Today‘s Matt Hayes, the situation may be more serious than previously indicated. Napier initially stated that Lagway would be limited as a passer due to a shoulder injury, but Hayes reports that the quarterback hasn’t thrown at all this spring and could need surgery. Lagway is also dealing with a core injury, adding to the concern.
“We’re being very smart about it,” Napier said in March, per the Associated Press. “He’ll be limited in throwing, but will still participate in practices. He showed incredible toughness last season.”
Napier has since offered a more positive outlook, recently saying Lagway is “doing great,” though he continues to be restricted from throwing.
With over four months before Florida’s opener against LIU on August 30—and a critical early-season clash with LSU two weeks later—Lagway’s availability remains uncertain. The Gators’ depth at quarterback is thin. Backup Harrison Bailey, now with his fourth program, flashed promise with a three-touchdown performance in the Sun Bowl for Louisville but has limited experience. Aidan Warner, a walk-on transfer from Yale, struggled last season with three interceptions against Texas.
Florida’s annual Blue & Orange Game kicks off Saturday at 1 p.m. ET. Though his status is up in the air, Lagway is listed on the Blue team’s roster.