Billy Napier addresses need to prepare multiple QBs to work with supporting cast

There’s no debate that DJ Lagway is going to be the starting quarterback for the Florida Gators this upcoming season. That doesn’t mean that head coach Billy Napier doesn’t need to have his two-deep prepared to play with multiple quarterbacks, though.

Following a season where Florida played three different starting quarterbacks, Napier knows that injuries are liable to occur. So, making sure that the supporting cast around them is capable of playing with any quarterback on the depth chart matters.

“I think the big thing would be, we’re going to have to play complementary football, regardless who’s playing quarterback,” Billy Napier said. “I mean, if you do your homework here, 85 percent of the time, the team is going to play with the two-quarterback. History is the best indicator of the future.”

While Lagway is expected to be Florida’s starter, he has his own injury history. He missed time in 2024 after getting banged up. Then, this offseason, he dealt with a shoulder issue and has been in a walking boot going into Fall Camp with a calf issue.

“We know that quality depth is critical. There’s going to be weeks where we’re missing three or four, we’re missing six or seven, and I think the depth is critical. It’s a part of playing in this league. The physicality of the league, the level of depth within the league,” Napier said. “And I think offensively, we certainly have a really good — when you talk about the front paired with the big, long, physical tight end group, the brand of ball that we were able to play down the stretch. I think we’re in position to do that.”

Florida does have some depth it can rely on at quarterback if need be. Aidan Warner played against Texas last season to fill in for injuries and is expected to be Florida’s backup going into next season. The Gators also have Harrison Bailey and Tramell Jones on their roster, battling for spots.

“Quarterback play, and I’ve said this to you guys going all the way back to year one,” Napier said. “I think is always indicative of how well people are playing around you. So, I think we’re always quick to give them the credit and quick to blame them at the same time. I think we got a good surrounding cast on offense, and we got to go get them game-ready. Ultimately, the next month will present that opportunity.”

As it stands now, DJ Lagway is expected to be healthy for the start of the season. He’s been back to taking reps with the first team. So, as long as he faces no further setbacks, Lagway should be good to go for their August 30th game against LIU.

Billy Napier confident in growth of DJ Lagway, ability to bounce back from injury setbacks

Nobody is happy to see DJ Lagway battle injuries. Regardless, Billy Napier is confident that he’s going to be able to bounce back from them quickly.

“When he gets back, you know, he’ll be just fine. I mean, he has had a great attitude towards it and I think we’ve got to help him manage expectations a little bit as well. But, in general, I think, one day at a time, being present and executing the plan for each day. I think we’ve got to help him with that,” Napier said.

“He’s in year two. He, I think, understands what’s required to be ready. It’s not ideal but I think, ultimately, you know, we’ll come up with the best plan we can to have him ready.”