DJ Lagway, Florida Gators’ standout quarterback, is making a strong impression both on and off the gridiron. As a true freshman, Lagway led the Gators to an 8-4 season while amassing 1,915 passing yards and 12 touchdowns during the 2024 campaign.
His impressive stats have sparked Heisman Trophy conversations ahead of the next season. Beyond his athletic skill, Lagway’s character off the field has earned admiration. His humility and leadership continue to leave a lasting impact.
DJ Lagway’s Off-Field Character is Shaping His Legacy
Lagway’s impressive performance as Florida’s quarterback last season cemented his status as a rising star. The standout freshman completed 59.9% of his passes, totaling 1,915 yards and 12 touchdowns across 12 games.
His efforts guided the Gators to an 8-4 record, solidifying his place among the nation’s top freshman quarterbacks. While his achievements on the field are remarkable, Lagway’s off-field impact is equally noteworthy.
At just 19 years old, Lagway established the “DJ Lagway Foundation,” dedicated to providing underprivileged youth with resources to help them thrive. In partnership with UF Health, the foundation will support local youth through various community programs.
To kick off the initiative, a dinner and fundraiser event was held Monday night at Spurrier’s Gridiron Grille.
“I had to prove myself on the field first and just continue to prove myself on the field, continue to get better,” Lagway explained. “But also using my platform and my notoriety to spread a bigger cause than football.”
DJ Lagway autographed portrait during his foundation kickoff sold for $8K during a live auction to raise money. Composed in just 7 minutes by speed painter Alejandro Ruiz. pic.twitter.com/xMT6eAIxN1
— Edgar Thompson (@osgators) March 11, 2025
In addition to his charitable work, Lagway made headlines in the NIL space by pledging a six-figure donation to Florida women’s athletics through Florida Victorious. This official NIL collective partners with businesses, donors, and organizations to support UF athletes.
“Hard work is the lifeblood of everything we do,” Lagway said on social media. “Every home run, every spike. So many hours of unseen hard work. But I see it, I see the 25 SEC championships. I see it in the perfect 10. I can hear the hours of dedication in every pitch. I see the precision in every 3-pointer. I am truly inspired by these women, their passion pushes me to go harder every single day.”
In honor of International Women’s Day, here is my gift to these incredible women student-athletes who have inspired me!
Go Gators 🐊 pic.twitter.com/lJiMASoq9k
— LAG ✞ (@DerekLagway) March 8, 2025
“I feel like female athletes, women athletes, don’t get the recognition that they deserve always,” Lagway said. “Just being able to use my platform and be able to do something as little as that, kind of bring awareness and a cause to people.”
According to Florida Victorious, Lagway’s donation will support the university’s women’s basketball, softball, volleyball, and gymnastics programs. Lagway, who has NIL deals with Gatorade, Nintendo, Epic Games, and Leaf Trading Cards, continues to make a significant impact on and off the field.
KEEP READING: 2025 Way-Too-Early College Football Top 25 Power Rankings
The Gators are set to begin their 2025 season against Long Island University on Saturday, Aug. 30.
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