Return to glory: 5-star Florida Gators QB commit DJ Lagway ready to ‘build something special’ in Gainesville

Return to Glory: 5-Star Florida Gators QB Commit DJ Lagway Ready to ‘Build Something Special’ in Gainesville

The Florida Gators are looking to reclaim their place among college football’s elite, and five-star quarterback DJ Lagway is determined to play a major role in that resurgence. The highly touted signal-caller from Willis, Texas, is one of the most exciting prospects in the 2024 recruiting class and has already made it clear that he’s ready to “build something special” in Gainesville.

#### **A Game-Changer for Florida**

Lagway, a consensus five-star recruit and one of the top-ranked quarterbacks in the country, committed to the Gators in December 2022, choosing Florida over powerhouse programs like USC, Clemson, and Texas A&M. His commitment was a huge win for head coach Billy Napier and his staff, as they continue to rebuild the program and attract top-tier talent.

At 6-foot-2 and 225 pounds, Lagway brings a rare combination of size, arm strength, and mobility to the quarterback position. He showcased his skills in his senior season at Willis High School, throwing for over 4,600 yards and 58 touchdowns while also adding nearly 1,000 rushing yards and 16 scores on the ground. His ability to make plays both in the pocket and on the run makes him an ideal fit for Florida’s offensive scheme.

#### **A Leader On and Off the Field**

Lagway’s impact extends beyond his on-field performance. He has embraced a leadership role in Florida’s 2024 recruiting class, actively recruiting other top prospects to join him in Gainesville. He has been vocal about his belief in Coach Napier’s vision and has worked tirelessly to convince other elite players that the Gators are on the verge of something special.

“I truly believe Florida is the best place for me to grow as a player and as a person,” Lagway said. “I want to help bring this program back to where it belongs—competing for championships.”

His commitment has already paid dividends, as Florida’s 2024 recruiting class ranks among the best in the country. Several top prospects, including wide receivers and offensive linemen, have followed Lagway’s lead, ensuring that he will have plenty of talent around him when he takes the field.

#### **What’s Next for Lagway and Florida?**

As Lagway prepares to arrive on campus, expectations are sky-high. Florida has struggled in recent years to find consistency at the quarterback position, but many believe Lagway has the potential to be the long-term answer. He will have the opportunity to compete for playing time as a freshman, though veteran quarterback Graham Mertz remains in the mix.

Regardless of when he takes over as the starter, Lagway’s presence alone has injected new energy into the program. Gators fans are eager to see if he can lead Florida back to the national spotlight, much like Tim Tebow did in the late 2000s.

With his elite talent, leadership, and determination, DJ Lagway is ready to help Florida return to glory. If he delivers on his potential, the Gators could once again be a force in the SEC and beyond.