Billy Napier opens up on DJ Lagway’s ability to overcome challenges, remain leader

Florida notched a huge victory in Week 6, as Billy Napier’s Gators pulled off a statement upset over Texas. It was the kind of win Florida fans had been waiting for — one where the Gators looked every bit the part of an SEC contender.

While early-season struggles may have dimmed hopes of a championship run, the play of quarterback DJ Lagway reignited optimism in Gainesville over the weekend. The highly touted signal-caller displayed poise, confidence and leadership against the Longhorns, earning high praise from his head coach following the game.

“There’s a sincerity to this kid. He chose the University of Florida, and he’s all in. He’s on a mission to do special things here, and he’s fully committed to that. There’s a certain level of pride in that,” Napier stated. “This kid has been through the gauntlet this offseason — I mean, there’ll be a book written about this set of circumstances. He’s tough, he’s got character, and he’s loyal — sometimes to a fault.

“He works like no one else. For him, this experience is something I keep talking to him about. I tell him, ‘Look, you’re going to be playing this game for a long time, and there are going to be days like this, weeks like this.’ Playing in this league or the next one — every team is a good team. You’re going to have bad days, and you’ve got to have an identity independent of the game.

“That’s where his faith comes in. He can stand on that. Maybe someone else who doesn’t have that foundation would struggle, but he has it — and that’s what makes him really unique.”

As Napier alluded to, Lagway’s road this season hasn’t been smooth. Entering 2025 with immense hype, the young quarterback faced adversity early — but his performance against Texas showed the kind of growth and maturity Florida has been hoping and waiting all season for.

All in all, Lagway finished the day with 298 passing yards and two touchdowns against one of the nation’s most disciplined defenses. More importantly, he carried himself like a veteran leader — calm, composed, and confident under pressure throughout the afternoon.

Next up, Florida faces another major test as it travels to Texas A&M, and they’re still seeking their first road win of the season. Four of the Gators’ final seven opponents are currently ranked, meaning Lagway’s resilience and leadership will remain vital as Florida fights to stay in the SEC hunt, even with three losses.