In a surprising turn of events, DJ Lagway, the highly touted freshman quarterback for the Florida Gators, has announced his decision to step away from college football due to personal reasons. Lagway, who took over as the starting quarterback after an injury to veteran Graham Mertz in October, played a pivotal role in leading the Gators to an 8-5 season, including notable victories over No. 9 Ole Miss and No. 22 Tennessee.
During his freshman campaign, Lagway showcased his potential by throwing for 1,915 yards and 12 touchdowns, with a completion percentage of 59.9%. He also contributed 101 rushing yards, demonstrating his versatility on the field.
Off the field, Lagway capitalized on his rising prominence by securing several Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals. Notably, he partnered with Nintendo and Epic Games, featuring in advertisements that highlighted his affinity for gaming. In one such promotion, Lagway stated, “OG Fortnite is back, so I had to hop on my Nintendo Switch.”
The announcement of his departure has left fans and analysts speculating about the future of the Gators’ quarterback position. With Mertz entering the 2025 NFL Draft, the team faces uncertainty under center. The recent departure of key staff members, including General Manager Thorne, has further compounded concerns about the program’s direction.
Despite the unexpected news, Lagway’s statement hinted at a possible return, offering a glimmer of hope to the Gators community. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, they will need to navigate these challenges and identify a new leader to helm the offense.
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