Florida Gators Hit Hard by Transfer Portal Departures as DJ Lagway, Jordan Castell Lead Exodus
The NCAA transfer portal doesn’t officially open until January 2, but the Florida Gators are already feeling its impact in a major way. What started with a few early departures has turned into a full-blown roster shakeup in Gainesville, with several key contributors - including a former five-star quarterback and a veteran defensive leader - heading for the exits.
Let’s break down the notable names who’ve entered the portal so far, what it means for the Gators, and who Florida is working hard to keep in the fold.
DJ Lagway Headlines Monday’s Mass Exodus
The biggest jolt came Monday, when quarterback DJ Lagway announced he was entering the transfer portal. Lagway’s decision sent shockwaves through the program - not just because of his potential, but because of what it signals about the current state of Florida football.
A highly touted recruit with a big arm and dual-threat ability, Lagway was seen as a centerpiece for the Gators’ future. His departure leaves a major hole at the quarterback position and raises questions about the direction of the offense heading into 2026.
But Lagway wasn’t alone. Four more Gators joined him in the portal on Monday, turning what was already a tough offseason into a potential turning point for Billy Napier’s program.
KD Daniels Looks for a Bigger Role
Running back KD Daniels became the second Gator to jump into the portal on Monday. A redshirt freshman from West Point, Mississippi, Daniels showed flashes in limited action - rushing 28 times for 108 yards and a touchdown over 10 games - but struggled to carve out a consistent role in a crowded backfield.
Daniels has the talent to contribute, but with Florida’s depth at running back, it’s not surprising he’s looking for a bigger opportunity elsewhere.
Amir Jackson: Special Teams Contributor Moves On
Redshirt freshman tight end Amir Jackson also announced his decision to transfer. Jackson played in 11 games this season, mostly on special teams, but did manage to record three catches for 29 yards and a touchdown against Texas A&M.
With limited offensive snaps and a deep tight end room in Gainesville, Jackson is hoping a change of scenery will give him more chances to showcase his athleticism.
Jordan Castell: Veteran Safety Enters the Portal
Perhaps the most impactful defensive departure so far is safety Jordan Castell. A three-year starter and former four-star recruit out of Orlando, Castell brought stability and leadership to the Gators’ secondary.
He started 34 games during his Florida career, and this season alone, he racked up 54 tackles (third-most on the team) and led the Gators with two interceptions. His four-game stretch against Miami, Texas, Texas A&M, and Georgia was particularly impressive - 26 tackles, two picks, and a quarterback hurry.
Castell finishes his Florida tenure with 168 total tackles, 12 pass breakups, three interceptions, and one sack. That kind of production and experience won’t be easy to replace.
Mike Peterson Jr. and Josiah Davis Join the List
Also entering the portal Monday were freshman walk-on wide receiver Mike Peterson Jr. and redshirt freshman safety Josiah Davis.
Peterson, the son of Florida edge rushers coach Mike Peterson, didn’t see game action this season. A three-star recruit, he had a productive senior year at Fort White High School with 24 catches for 258 yards and four touchdowns.
Davis, meanwhile, appeared in five games over two seasons on defense and special teams. He still has three years of eligibility remaining and will be looking for a fresh start.
Tuesday Brings More Movement: Aidan Mizell and Teddy Foster Depart
The portal activity didn’t slow down on Tuesday. Redshirt sophomore wide receiver Aidan Mizell, a player with big-time speed and upside, announced he was transferring. Mizell never quite broke through in Gainesville - injuries and depth chart battles kept him from reaching his potential - but he showed flashes.
This season, Mizell played in eight games, catching 19 passes for 177 yards and a touchdown (which came in a loss to LSU). Across two seasons, he totaled 38 catches, 404 yards, and three scores.
He’ll be a name to watch wherever he lands. His brother, Isaiah, is currently a wideout at Arizona.
Later in the day, redshirt freshman defensive back Teddy Foster became the 10th Gator to enter the portal. Foster, a Sarasota native, played in six games this season, mostly on special teams.
He logged 12 defensive snaps and recorded one solo tackle in the season opener against Long Island. He has three years of eligibility left.
All Eyes on Jadan Baugh
While the portal has already claimed some major names, Florida is doing everything it can to keep one of its biggest breakout stars: running back Jadan Baugh.
Baugh was a workhorse in 2025, appearing in all 12 games and posting 1,170 rushing yards on 220 carries with eight touchdowns. He also added 31 receptions for 185 yards and two more scores through the air.
His performance in the regular-season finale against Florida State was unforgettable - 266 rushing yards on 38 carries and two touchdowns. That 266-yard performance ranks as the second-highest single-game rushing total in Gators history.
Florida is reportedly in active negotiations to keep Baugh in Gainesville, and it’s easy to see why. He’s not just a key piece of the offense - he’s the kind of player you build around.
What’s Next?
With the portal officially opening in early January, this may just be the beginning. More decisions are coming, and Florida’s coaching staff will be working overtime to manage both departures and potential additions.
The transfer portal era has changed college football, and Florida is feeling that shift in real time. The challenge now is not just replacing talent, but stabilizing a roster that’s seen significant turnover in just a matter of days.
The next few weeks will be crucial for the Gators - not just in terms of who’s leaving, but who they can convince to stay.