PFF Hyping Up DJ Lagway Should Get Florida Fans Everywhere Pumped Up
The University of Florida Gators are no strangers to hype during college football preseason, but the latest buzz surrounding 2024 quarterback signee DJ Lagway has fans feeling especially optimistic. Pro Football Focus (PFF), a respected name in football analytics, recently highlighted Lagway as one of the most exciting prospects in the nation. For Gator Nation, the endorsement from PFF is more than just another headline—it’s a signal that a new era could be on the horizon in Gainesville.
Lagway, a five-star quarterback out of Willis High School in Texas, has had eyes on him for the better part of two years. But the national media is finally catching up to what Florida fans have been buzzing about since he committed. PFF recently listed him as one of the top freshman quarterbacks to watch in 2024, praising his arm talent, poise under pressure, and dual-threat capabilities. That’s high praise from an outlet known more for detailed film breakdowns and statistical rigor than hot takes.
In their evaluation, PFF pointed out Lagway’s elite combination of size, speed, and football IQ. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing over 225 pounds, Lagway is physically ready for SEC competition. But what sets him apart, according to analysts, is his ability to extend plays and make difficult throws on the run—something Florida’s offense has sorely missed since the days of Tim Tebow and more recently, Anthony Richardson.
Florida’s quarterback room has seen a carousel of inconsistency over the past few seasons, making Lagway’s arrival even more critical. Billy Napier and his staff have staked a lot on developing Lagway, and if the early signs from spring practice and high school tape are anything to go by, he could be the kind of program-changing talent Florida has been searching for.
The hype isn’t just based on raw physical tools. Lagway’s senior year stats at Willis were nothing short of video-game numbers: over 4,600 passing yards, 58 total touchdowns, and a mere 5 interceptions. He displayed maturity beyond his years, making smart reads and showing command of the offense. Scouts and coaches alike have noted his leadership qualities, which are already resonating with teammates.
More importantly, Lagway fits perfectly into Napier’s offensive system, which emphasizes a balanced attack, RPO (run-pass option) plays, and the ability to exploit mismatches in the open field. With the Florida offensive line showing signs of improvement and a strong stable of young wideouts and running backs, the environment is ripe for Lagway to thrive.
The Gators haven’t had a true franchise quarterback to rally behind in quite some time. While Richardson had flashes of brilliance, injuries and inconsistent play derailed much of the hype. Emory Jones and Feleipe Franks also had moments, but neither could deliver long-term success. Lagway brings a new energy—a rare blend of star power, coachability, and charisma.
Florida fans have been cautiously optimistic in recent years, but PFF’s analysis has given them a reason to truly believe. When one of the most data-driven platforms in football is singing the praises of your quarterback recruit, it usually means there’s real substance behind the flash.
Another factor contributing to the excitement is Lagway’s commitment to Florida, even amid the shifting sands of NIL deals and transfer portal chaos. He stayed loyal through coaching changes, recruiting pressure from other top programs, and even public speculation about early NFL potential. That kind of loyalty and maturity is rare, and it speaks volumes about the kind of player—and person—Florida is getting.
If Lagway lives up to even half of his potential, he could be the cornerstone that helps lift Florida back into SEC contention. With Georgia dominating the East and Alabama constantly in the national conversation, the Gators need a player who can swing games and electrify crowds. DJ Lagway might just be that player.
Of course, expectations come with pressure. Starting as a freshman in the SEC is never easy. But based on everything we’ve seen and heard—from high school tape to PFF’s breakdowns—it’s clear that DJ Lagway welcomes that pressure. He thrives in it.
As summer workouts heat up and fall camp approaches, Florida fans everywhere should keep a close eye on number 2. The DJ Lagway era is about to begin, and if PFF is right, it could be one worth remembering.
