DJ Lagway explains approach to handling pressure as Florida's QB1: 'Pressure is a privilege'

DJ Lagway seems to have been born to handle pressure as the Florida Gators’ quarterback going into the 2025 season. Now a sophomore, Lagway knows what to expect when he takes the field in The Swamp.

Head coach Billy Napier was under a tremendous amount of pressure going into last season, but Florida ended hot. Now, the expectations are high and Lagway is at the forefront of a potential Florida resurgence.

Not only is he ready for that challenge, Lagway is excited for it. It’s like he breathes pressure throughout the week to get to game day Saturdays.

“I always say pressure is a privilege,” Lagway said at SEC Media Days. “Once you have pressure, that means people are counting on you to do big things. So I’m always excited when people say pressure. You know, that’s why I just love the game day atmosphere, because that feels like all eyes are on you. And you gotta put on a show, you know? So that’s what I’m excited for.”

Lagway was asked a follow up question considering Napier’s status. It was on the narrative that he essentially saved his coach’s job going into 2025.

DJ Lagway embracing pressure going into 2025

“The way I handle pressure and you know all that stuff, I kind of prepare like crazy, and preparation leads to confidence,” Lagway said. “So once I get to Saturday, I already know that I put the work in and did all I needed to do. Kudos to the coaching staff, you know, they prepare us like crazy … They put together a plan for the quarterbacks and just … the team in general. So like, we get out there, we already know what’s going to happen. So that’s great.”

Lagway was a little dinged up throughout the year and ended up with pedestrian stats last season. But as a freshman, he had his moments and you could see the tantalizing potential. Lagway had 1,915 yards, 12 touchdowns, nine interceptions and a 59.9% completion percentage.

As a member of the Class of 2024, Lagway was a five-star recruit out of Willis (Texas) High, according to the Rivals Industry Ranking. He was the No. 1 overall prospect in the state, the No. 1 quarterback in the class and the No. 3 overall prospect in the class.

If he’s to live up to the billing, Lagway could steer this Florida team to a playoff appearance. That’s despite the challenging schedule, but there’s true excitement in Gainesville.