GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Gators sophomore quarterback DJ Lagway announced Monday that he is entering the NCAA transfer portal.

“I am truly grateful for the opportunity to have been part of such an incredible program here at the University of Florida,” Lagway posted in a message on X. “After much prayer, reflection, and thoughtful consideration, I have decided to enter the transfer portal.”

The transfer portal opens Jan. 2 and closes on Jan. 16.

 

Thank you Gainesville ❤️ pic.twitter.com/sHszSUTslW

— LAG ✞ (@DerekLagway) December 15, 2025

 
Lagway led the Gators to a 6-1 record in seven starts as a true freshman, but he struggled as a sophomore during Florida’s 4-8 season. Lagway missed spring camp and the majority of preseason camp while hampered by various injuries.

When he returned, Lagway could never find the rhythm of 2024, when he led the Gators on a four-game win streak to close the season, including home wins over LSU and Ole Miss. He also led UF to a victory over Tulane and new Gators head coach Jon Sumrall in the Gasparilla Bowl.

Lagway finished his sophomore season with 2,264 yards passing, 16 touchdowns, and 14 interceptions. He completed 63.2% of his passes and was benched in the second half of a 38-7 loss at Kentucky after throwing three interceptions in the first half. He finished the season by leading the Gators to a victory over Florida State, snapping a four-game losing streak.

A five-star recruit from Willis, Texas, Lagway arrived at UF with much ballyhoo. However, inconsistency and the arrival of Sumrall and offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner signal a fresh era for the Gators. As the 6-foot-3, 225-pound Lagway moves on, he is expected to draw interest from other programs looking for an experienced quarterback with 19 career starts and untapped potential.