Florida quarterback DJ Lagway is cleared to start the opening game of the season for the 15th-ranked Gators on Saturday against FCS Long Island.
Lagway’s status was uncertain entering the season with an assortment of injuries. He was unable to throw in spring practice while fighting a shoulder injury. He hurt his calf in a team run over the summer, briefly requiring a walking boot.
The sophomore will lead the Gators’ offense to start the game, but how long he’s around is undetermined. The sophomore hasn’t taken true live snaps since the Gators played Tulane in the Gasparilla Bowl in December, but head coach Billy Napier said there is no anxiety or concern about how his QB prepares for a game.
“Last year, at this point in time, he had no clue what he was walking into. Until you run out there, you don’t quite understand,” Napier said.
As of Monday, the Gators were undecided on Lagway’s backup. Aidan Warner, a transfer from Yale, freshman Tramell Jones Jr. and former Louisville quarterback Harrison Bailey are competing to be the next man up if Lagway is injured.
“(Lagway) gets better every day,” Napier said Monday. “He’s having a lot of fun playing football and competing. He’s smiling a lot more often now. He truly enjoys practicing, preparing. It’s the opportunity to get better. I think the kid is consumed with improvement, and he knows the value of practice, so him getting to do that, I think he’s happy.”
