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Billy Napier provides DJ Lagway update, quells opt-out concerns

On3 imageby: Zach Abolverdi09/24/25ZachAbolverdi
DJ-Lagway-Florida-Gators
Florida Gators quarterback DJ Lagway (2) looks to throw against the Long Island Sharks during the first half at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. (Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images)

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Florida quarterback DJ Lagway has returned to practice after being in a boot earlier this week. And contrary to the rumors, Lagway isn’t looking to redshirt after four games played this season.

This is all according to UF coach Billy Napier, who provided an update on Lagway during the SEC teleconference Wednesday. He also dismissed the notion that his latest injury setback would result in him opting out.

The Freshman All-American was in a boot on Monday following Florida’s 26-7 loss to Miami. Napier confirmed Gators Online’s reporting Lagway had been stepped on against UM and revealed that he’s already back.

“DJ’s fine. He got stepped on there during the game, we put a boot on him, there’s no issue at all. He practiced yesterday, he’s 100 percent,” Napier said.

Once news broke that Lagway was in a boot, some speculation that he would be opt out for the rest of the season and take a redshirt this year. Napier shot down those concerns on Wednesday.

“It’s comical. The kid has been back in here since Sunday, working his butt off,” Napier said. “Yesterday, had a really good day. So yeah, we can’t control that outside narrative, obviously. But no, he’s just fine. He’s been in the building, just like he’s on the staff, so he’s been back to work. And certainly, yeah, that’s a total myth that’s out there.”

Lagway, who missed spring and fall camp with injuries, has 690 passing yards with five touchdowns, six interceptions and a 67.5% completion rate this season. He’s coming off two poor performances on the road, throwing five interceptions at LSU and a career-low 61 yards as a starter at Miami.

Lagway didn’t sound like a player who’s planning to shut it down after the loss to the Hurricanes.

“It’s been hard, but let me tell y’all something. We’re going to get things changed for sure. I guarantee that. I can guarantee that. This is not acceptable at all. I’m not going to sit here and lie to y’all and make it seem like this is OK. This isn’t OK. We’ve got to play better football and it starts with me.

“What gives you that conviction? Because I’m the head of it. I’m going to start with it. I’m going to demand greatness from everybody. It’s not — we’re done with the playing around stuff. It’s time to get serious and it starts with me. I’ve got to set the tempo. I’ve got to set the tone in practice. In meetings, around the building. I know for a fact it’s going to change because it’s going to start with me.”

DJ Lagway after the Miami game

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