With the season opener less than two weeks away, Florida starting quarterback DJ Lagway participated in his first 11-on-11 practice of fall camp on Monday.
According to multiple media reports, Lagway still wore a noncontact jersey as he participated in the live drills for the first time since opening camp in a walking boot.
Lagway could not throw during Florida’s spring practices due to a shoulder injury. He said at Southeastern Conference media days in July that he would be a full participant in fall camp.
Then, he hurt his lower leg during a team run, according to reports. It was diagnosed as a calf strain.
“He took team reps today, which was good, and obviously he was hitting,” coach Billy Napier told reporters on Monday. “He had a great full, full stack of throws last week, four days in a row. Didn’t scrimmage, but did quite a bit of work that day. So yeah, he’s feeling much better and he’s moving around well.”
Lagway was the No. 1-rated quarterback in the high school Class of 2024. He took over as the Gators’ starter midway through 2024 and was named a freshman All-American after throwing for 1,915 yards, 12 touchdowns and nine interceptions in 12 games.
He was expected to be in the Heisman Trophy discussion this year, barring injuries.
It’s unclear who would start behind center if Lagway cannot play, as Napier said the position battle for backup quarterback is still alive between Louisville transfer Harrison Bailey, Aidan Warner and freshman Tramell Jones Jr.
The Gators open the season Aug. 30 against FCS Long Island.