DJ Lagway, the talented quarterback hailing from Willis, TX, is finding his footing back home after a challenging stint with the Florida Gators. Now at Baylor, Lagway is embracing a fresh start, leaving behind a tumultuous two years in Gainesville.
During his time with the Gators, Lagway showcased his skills, completing 328 of 529 passes for 4,179 yards, 28 touchdowns, and 23 interceptions. The 2025 season was particularly tough, as he threw for 2,264 yards and 16 touchdowns, but also endured 14 interceptions, contributing to the team's 4-8 finish. The season's struggles led to a coaching change, with Jon Sumrall taking over after Billy Napier's departure.
In an insightful conversation with Matt Hayes, Lagway opened up about the stark contrasts between his experiences at Florida and Baylor. At Florida, his fame kept him away from the classroom, creating a sense of isolation. At Baylor, however, he's re-engaging with campus life, attending classes, and feeling more like a regular student.
Lagway candidly shared his battles with depression and feelings of isolation during his time in Florida. “I was in a bubble down there, I didn’t feel like a normal person,” he revealed. Despite his on-field presence, he felt disconnected, rarely mingling with teammates and remaining largely withdrawn.
Injuries added to his challenges, with a calf issue, core muscle strain, and shoulder injury plaguing his tenure at Florida. These physical setbacks, coupled with the weight of expectations, took a toll on his mental health.
Lagway reflected on the pressure, admitting he could have done more to foster camaraderie with his teammates. “I blame myself for not doing more to build that brotherhood,” he admitted.
Feeling placed on a pedestal, he struggled to navigate the situation.
Now at Baylor, Lagway is focused on moving forward, building connections, and thriving both on and off the field. His journey serves as a powerful reminder of the pressures athletes face and the importance of mental health in sports.