New Florida Gators head coach Jon Sumrall is on a mission to resurrect one of the SEC’s most storied programs. But he’ll be doing it without quarterback DJ Lagway.
Lagway recently entered the transfer portal and is set to be one of the most sought-after quarterbacks in the cycle. Apparently, he wanted to stay in Gainesville, but after meeting with the new coaching staff, things didn’t go well.
“Lagway’s initial meeting with the new Florida staff did not go well, per multiple sources. New Florida head coach Jon Sumrall questioned who Lagway is as a football player. The new staff opted to challenge the high-priced quarterback, pushing him on his competitiveness and work ethic,” CBS Sports’ Chris Hummer reported.
The former five-star quarterback was the No. 1 quarterback prospect in the 2024 class and No. 3 overall nationally, according to 247Sports. As a transfer, he’s now ranked as the No. 3 quarterback and No. 3 overall player.
As usual, plenty of quarterback-needy programs will be lining up despite Lagway’s uneven production. He finished second in the FBS in interceptions this season with 14, with his mechanics looking off at times, not to mention ongoing durability concerns.
One school that will almost certainly dip back into the portal is Miami. The Hurricanes have landed Cam Ward and Carson Beck in recent cycles. Still, Lagway may not be on Miami’s radar — and Miami may not be on his.
DJ Lagway Considered a Favorite for Louisville
While Miami makes sense on paper given its recent success rehabilitating quarterbacks, Lagway may be headed elsewhere. One intriguing option, according to On3’s Pete Nakos, is Louisville.
However, competition could be stiff, as Nebraska’s Dylan Raiola is also reportedly in play.
“Sources have told On3 that in the last 24 hours, Louisville has been in contact with both Lagway and Raiola’s camps. Several other schools will be in the mix for both quarterbacks, but the Cardinals are actively working to land a transfer quarterback with Miller Moss’ college career coming to an end,” Nakos reported.
The key factor here is Louisville head coach Jeff Brohm, who has built a reputation for quarterback development. It’s why Tyler Shough boosted his NFL Draft stock and eventually landed with the New Orleans Saints. It’s also part of why Moss found Louisville appealing after transferring from USC.
Other ACC Teams in the Mix for DJ Lagway
Louisville isn’t the only ACC option. Several programs in the conference will be searching for their next quarterback.
That list includes Clemson, Florida State, and possibly Duke, depending on what Darian Mensah decides to do with his future.
Of course, any program pursuing Lagway will need to open its wallet. Despite his inconsistencies, he remains one of the top quarterback transfers available. On3 currently lists his NIL valuation at $2 million.
“Lagway is no longer a sure thing, but teams will still eagerly bet on him with his talent,” Hummer wrote.
No matter where he goes, he’ll likely be somewhat of a project for someone. But he could be well worth a coaches patience if his talent comes through.
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