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2h ago

Florida Names DJ Lagway Starter for Opener After Return to Full Practice

Florida plans a cautious reintroduction after months of injuries.

Nov 23, 2024; Gainesville, Florida, USA; Florida Gators quarterback DJ Lagway (2) runs with the ball against the Mississippi Rebels during the first half at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images/File Photo
DJ Lagway #2 of the Florida Gators warms up before the start of a game against the Mississippi Rebels at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on November 23, 2024 in Gainesville, Florida.
University of Florida quarterback DJ Lagway is pictured during practice on campus in Gainesville on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2025. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
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Overview

  • Head coach Billy Napier said Lagway has practiced fully in recent sessions and will start Saturday against Long Island University at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium.
  • The sophomore missed spring throwing due to a shoulder issue, underwent core surgery in the offseason, and strained his left calf in summer conditioning.
  • Lagway resumed 11-on-11 work on Aug. 18 and only recently began taking full team reps after being limited for weeks.
  • Napier indicated the 15th-ranked Gators will limit Lagway’s exposure early, and the staff has not named a backup as Aidan Warner, Tramell Jones Jr. and Harrison Bailey remain in contention.
  • He has not taken true live snaps since December’s Gasparilla Bowl, though betting markets still list him at +1800 for the Heisman and put Florida around a 3.8% SEC title chance (+2000).