DJ Lagway in Boot with Calf Strain at Fall Camp Start

Florida Quarterback DJ Lagway Faces New Setbacks

Florida quarterback DJ Lagway is currently sidelined as the Gators begin their fall training camp, continuing his journey from the sideline. He is dealing with a calf strain and is wearing a walking boot, which has kept him away from the field. Head coach Billy Napier has not provided a specific timeline for Lagway's return, adding to the uncertainty surrounding his availability for the upcoming season.

This latest injury marks another challenge for Lagway, who has faced multiple setbacks over the past few years. As a highly touted sophomore, he missed part of the spring practice due to a shoulder injury after undergoing surgery for a sports hernia. Despite these obstacles, Napier has praised Lagway’s attitude and determination, emphasizing that he understands what it takes to be ready for the season.

“DJ is in Year 2, and I think he understands what's required to be ready,” Napier said. “It's not ideal, but I think ultimately we'll come up with the best plan we can to have him ready.”

The Gators’ training camp kicked off on Wednesday, and Napier took an unusual approach by closing viewing periods to media for the first three days. This decision highlights the importance of maintaining focus and privacy during this critical period for the team.

Lagway, who led the Gators to a 6-1 record in seven starts as a freshman in 2024, is widely considered a Heisman Trophy contender for the upcoming season. However, his limited time on the field has hindered his development at a crucial stage. He was initially expected to participate fully in training camp after resuming throwing in late April. But a recent calf strain has thrown a wrench into those plans.

“Injuries are one of the terrible things about the profession,” Napier said. “But DJ has done a good job staying connected. He's still a leader and a factor in the team's dynamics. He needs these reps for development, and when he gets back, he'll be just fine.”

Lagway’s performance last season included completing 60% of his passes for 1,915 yards, with 12 touchdowns and nine interceptions. He took over as the starting quarterback after Graham Mertz suffered a knee ligament tear against Tennessee in October. Without Lagway, veteran quarterback Harrison Bailey is expected to take most of the first-team snaps. Bailey previously played at Tennessee, UNLV, and Louisville before transferring to Florida earlier this year.

For Lagway, the calf injury is just the latest in a series of challenges over the past three years. The Willis, Texas, native injured his right foot during the Under Armour All-American Game in January 2024 and missed parts of training camp due to shoulder soreness. He also strained his left hamstring against Georgia last year and missed the following week's game at Texas. Despite these setbacks, he returned later in the season and helped the Gators win their final four games.

Teammates remain confident in Lagway’s ability to overcome these challenges. Defensive end Tyreak Sapp expressed his belief in Lagway’s potential, saying, “The sky's the limit for that kid. He's not just blessed with a lot of ability; he's skilled. He practices what he preaches and comes in every day and works hard, regardless of what it is.”

Sapp added, “It's going to be super exciting to see what he does. I know DJ's going to be able to show out and be himself — and be the best version of himself.”