Quarterback DJ Lagway is healthy, back just in time for No. 15 Gators’ season opener

GAINESVILLE — Florida quarterback DJ Lagway’s last public appearance in the Swamp was ceremonial and somewhat confusing.

Limited by an ailing right shoulder, Lagway handled the opening snap of April 12 spring game, handed off the ball and then exited the game — a process he’d repeat to open several series without making a pass.

Casual fans were reminded Lagway was injured, if they were even aware. Ardent fans were left to speculate on the future of the Freshman All-American, who expended more energy signing autographs after the game than participating in it.

Those uncertain times, compounded by a calf injury just ahead of fall camp, appear to be behind him. Lagway is scheduled to start Saturday night’s season opener against Long Island University.

Napier said the sophomore star has practiced this week like the player who ended 2024 one of the nation’s rising stars and a quarterback capable of elevating No. 15 Gators, who are ranked in the preseason for the first time since 2021.

“It’s impressive to watch. It’s fun to watch,” Napier said Wednesday night. “He’s had really good days. It’s competitive out there. The coverage is tight. The rush is real. The pocket is not always as clean as it can be, but’s it’s a healthy competition.

“He’s had a good week. I know he’s excited to play.”

Gator Nation is eager to see Lagway in action for the first time since the Dec. 20 Gasparilla Bowl.

The 20-year-old’s injuries — first a sports hernia, then the shoulder, followed by his left calf — have consumed the fan base and Gators’ news cycle.

The questions remain whether he is 100% healthy, can make all the throws, capitalize on his dual-threat abilities or comfortably escape the pass rush. None of the above is likely to be tested by outmanned LIU, a FCS school coming off a 4-8 season.

Lagway might not need to play the entire first half during what surely will be a one-sided contest.

By Florida’s SEC opener Sept. 13 at No. 9 LSU, the 6-foot-3, 247-pound Lagway must be able to capitalize on his arm strength and complete skill set.

Lagway has not addressed his injuries publicly. But Napier said he was confident his QB1 would be ready for Week 1.

“We’ve got really good people, UFHealth and being in the state of Florida, the network of people that we’ve built relationships with over time,” Napier said. “Paul Silvestri (senior director of sports health and performance) did a great job designing the plan. We did our homework.

“DJ executed, he brought the attitude and the effort every day, and then obviously he’s made enough progress to be prepared. It was a team effort.”

Napier said Lagway spent an additional three hours daily focused on his recovery, “on top of his typical routine, which is a lot in itself.”

Entering a game where Florida can effectively name the score, Lagway’s continued progress would be a win.

Edgar Thompson can be reached at moc.lenitnesodnalro@nospmohtge