Gators fans receive key injury update on DJ Lagway ahead of next NCAAF season

The goal for the Florida Gators heading into the upcoming NCAAF season remains unchanged: to become one of the teams to beat in the SEC. To achieve that, Billy Napier’s squad will need to perform at their highest level — and just as importantly, stay healthy throughout the season. DJ Lagway will be tasked with leading the team, and there’s a strong sense of belief in what he can bring to the program moving forward.

Days ago, news began to circulate around the Gators’ facilities when the talented quarterback was seen wearing a walking boot on one of his legs. That moment sparked immediate concern, as many began to wonder what was really going on with their leader.

Despite the apprehension that quickly spread throughout the program, reporter Zach Abolverdi eased tensions during an appearance on The Paul Finebaum Show, clarifying that the calf issue is not expected to be a long-term concern.

“Obviously he’s dealing with multiple things,” Abolverdi said. “The latest injury is this calf injury that we reported at Gators Online. There was a bunch of rumors that were circulating after it happened. And he was in a boot for this injury. And it was something that obviously caused him to miss the first day of practice.

DJ Lagway #2 of the Florida Gators looks to pass during the first half of a game against the Samford Bulldogs at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on September 07, 2024 in Gainesville, Florida.

“It’s not something that is expected to be a long-term thing or keep him out of camp. But it is something that did have him hobbling around and limping, and he’s not able to go here as they start practices.”

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The importance of reps with his teammates

While it’s well known that his discomfort isn’t a major concern moving forward, many believe that being on the field with his teammates for every practice is crucial to building strong chemistry.

“I know he’s been around during spring,” former Florida quarterback Chris Doering on Sirius XM radio. “He got mental reps and called some of the plays and signaled things in, but I’m seriously concerned about the lack of time that he’s had with his new weapons. J Michael Sturdivant, the receiver from UCLA, has looked amazing from everybody that I’ve talked to. But how many times have those guys gotten reps together?

“Dallas Wilson was tremendous in the spring. How many times has he gotten to throw with DJ Lagway? Vernell Brown III is another young guy coming in that needs time with his quarterback. Tre Wilson was injured for much of last year. Didn’t necessarily get to play with DJ.”