Billy Napier Denies DJ Lagway Opt-Out Rumor: ‘It’s Laughable’
Napier Also Confirms Quarterback is ‘100 Percent’ Healthy During SEC Coaches Teleconference
GAINESVILLE, Fla. – As the Florida Gators enter Week 5 of the 2025 season, the risk of burning a year of eligibility has become a concern for players who’ve appeared in every game thus far.
With the modern era of transfers and opt-outs comes inevitable rumors, and sophomore quarterback DJ Lagway has been a target this season, particularly due to his struggles on the field and questions about his health.
This week, rumors swirled after Lagway, who has lost his last three starts and thrown two touchdowns to six interceptions, was reported to be in a walking boot after being stepped on during Florida’s loss to Miami. Speculation began to spread that the former five-star recruit might opt out of the season to preserve his eligibility.
However, head coach Billy Napier quickly dismissed these rumors during Wednesday’s SEC Coaches Teleconference, asserting that Lagway is fully healthy and practicing.
“It’s laughable,” Napier said about the opt-out talk. “The kid’s been back in here since Sunday, working his tail off. He had a great day Monday and Tuesday. We can’t control the outside narrative, but no, he’s fine. He’s been in the building, just like the staff. He’s back to work. That opt-out stuff is a complete myth.”
Lagway’s sophomore campaign has been far from smooth, as the Gators have struggled with a 1-3 record, suffering three straight losses. The offense has been plagued by inconsistency, scoring just three touchdowns in the past three games. Lagway has come under scrutiny for his inability to move the ball effectively, throwing a career-high five interceptions against LSU—marking the most picks by a Florida QB in over 30 years—and managing only 61 yards through the air in a loss to Miami, a career-low for a game he started and finished.
Despite the criticism, Napier emphasized that the team’s issues go beyond Lagway, and he pointed to a broader problem with the offense.
“We’re emphasizing accountability across the board,” Napier said. “Every position group has contributed to our struggles. While a lot of attention is on DJ and his performance, we need to improve as a team, and that includes playing better around him.”
Lagway, for his part, has taken responsibility for the Gators’ struggles and remains confident about turning things around.
“I’m going to demand greatness from everyone,” Lagway said after the Miami loss. “We’re done messing around. It’s time to get serious, and it starts with me. I’ve got to set the tone in practice, in meetings, around the building. I know things will change because it starts with me.”
Florida will return to action on Oct. 4, when they host No. 10 Texas.
No Comment! Be the first one.