Florida quarterback DJ Lagway to enter transfer portal amid coaching change

GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB/AP) - University of Florida Gators football quarterback DJ Lagway intends to enter the NCAA transfer portal, he confirmed on social media.

In a message thanking the Gator Family, the quarterback announced he will enter the portal. Although Lagway did not specify his reasons for leaving, ESPN’s Pete Thamel reports that he is seeking a fresh start.

“When he released his statement, he mentioned wanting a fresh start, and I believe he truly feels that way,” added Steve Russell, a sports legend from Gainesville.

The oft-injured Lagway completed 63% of his passes this season for 2,264 yards, with 16 touchdowns and 14 interceptions. He also ran for 136 yards and a score. He missed most of the offseason program while recovering from core-muscle surgery, a sore throwing arm and a strained calf. He also missed time in 2024 with a hamstring injury.

The Gators (4-8) fired coach Billy Napier in October, raising speculation about Lagway’s future. They hired Tulane’s Jon Sumrall to replace Napier, who recruited Lagway out of Willis, Texas, and Sumrall will go in a different direction at the all-important QB position.

“The best scenario is for Sumrall to bring in one or two transfers that can compete, play, and challenge each other,” said Russell.

Lagway looked like a potential star as a freshman at Florida, going 6-1 as a starter. But he seemed out of sorts as a sophomore — evidenced by sloppy mechanics and a clear lack of confidence in the pocket.

“If you’re a high-profile athlete, money is involved in this situation. How much negotiation took place? Was he asked to take a pay cut? Did he agree or decline? There are several schools interested in him,” added Russell.

Lagway was also due to make more than $3 million in 2026 at Florida and made millions already through name, image and likeness deals with Gatorade, Jordan Brand, Mercedes-Benz, Lamborghini Orlando, T-Mobile, Beats by Dre, Chipotle and others.

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His value as a brand ambassador seemed to take a hit in Gainesville. He will now look for a fresh start elsewhere.

He thanked family, friends, teammates, coaches, training staff, and “every member of the Florida community” in his goodbye message.

“I hope the kid does great. On the field, a great guy and never a problem off the field. Seemed to be well-liked in the locker room,” added Russell.

With his transfer announcement, all eyes are on the future. Who will step in as the new quarterback for the Gators? And where will Lagway land next?

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