DJ Lagway Explores Transfer Options After Florida Tenure

DJ Lagway, a former five-star quarterback from the University of Florida, recently visited Florida State University (FSU) as he explores options in the NCAA transfer portal. Lagway, who has two years of eligibility remaining, expressed enthusiasm about his time in Tallahassee, stating he was "on cloud nine" after the visit. He was particularly impressed by the coaching staff, including offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn, who drew comparisons between Lagway and former Heisman Trophy winner Cam Newton, emphasizing Lagway's dual-threat capabilities.

Tallahasee DemocratSports IllustratedHeavyFlorida fans won’t like DJ Lagway’s glowing Florida State reviewDJ Lagway can see himself in FSU's offenseNewsweekUVA Football: Former five-star QB DJ Lagway set for portal visit

Lagway's tenure at Florida was marked by both promise and challenges. He initially took over as the starting quarterback midway through his freshman season in 2024, leading the Gators to a 6-1 record while throwing for 1,915 yards, 12 touchdowns, and nine interceptions. However, his performance declined during his sophomore year, where he completed 62% of his passes for 2,264 yards, 16 touchdowns, and 14 interceptions. Lagway's struggles were compounded by injuries and a coaching change, which ultimately led to his decision to enter the transfer portal.

247Sports247SportsSports IllustratedDaytona Beach News-JournalFlorida transfer QB DJ Lagway sets visit at Virginia following trip to Florida StateFlorida QB transfer to see several other schools after FSU visitDJ Lagway can see himself in FSU's offense

FSU head coach Mike Norvell acknowledged Lagway's talent, noting the difficulties he faced at Florida, including injuries and high expectations. Norvell stated, "You see the arm talent, you see the size, the ability to extend plays. He's a dangerous player to have to go against." Malzahn's pitch to Lagway included a detailed analysis of how he could fit into FSU's offensive scheme, which resonated with Lagway.

Heavy

Following his visit to FSU, Lagway is scheduled to visit the University of Virginia, where he could find a more immediate opportunity to start, especially given the uncertainty surrounding their current quarterback situation. Virginia is coming off a successful season, finishing with an 11-3 record and a Gator Bowl victory, which may appeal to Lagway as he seeks a fresh start.

Florida fans won’t like DJ Lagway’s glowing Florida State review

Despite the positive feedback from FSU, there are concerns about Lagway's consistency and turnover issues. His performance at Florida raised questions about his competitiveness and work ethic, particularly after new head coach Jon Sumrall's assessment of him. Critics argue that while Lagway possesses significant talent, his ability to limit mistakes will be crucial for his success at a new program.

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As Lagway continues to evaluate his options, he remains open to visiting additional schools beyond Virginia and FSU. His decision will be pivotal not only for his career but also for the programs vying for his commitment, as he is currently ranked as the 11th overall player in the transfer portal and the fourth-best quarterback.

Florida transfer QB DJ Lagway sets visit at Virginia following trip to Florida State

• “I really did love it. It was really nice up here, excited for the relationship to continue to build.” — DJ Lagway

Tallahasee Democrat

• “But I mean, you see the arm talent. You see the size, the ability to extend plays. He's a dangerous player to have to go against, and he can make every throw. But at the end of the day, we've got to try to disrupt him, try to make him uncomfortable. We know the talent's there.” — Mike Norvell

247Sports

• “Yeah, he said he's seen some similarity to me and Cam Newton,” — DJ Lagway

DJ Lagway can see himself in FSU's offense

DJ Lagway's journey through the transfer portal will be closely watched as he seeks to redefine his college football career.

Florida transfer QB DJ Lagway sets visit at Virginia following trip to Florida State