The air in Gainesville still hums with the echoes of Anthony Richardson’s electrifying plays, but a new chapter is rapidly unfolding at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, one that has even the Indianapolis Colts’ starting quarterback singing praises. DJ Lagway, the highly touted true freshman who found himself unexpectedly thrust into the starting role last season, has captured the attention and admiration of his predecessor, with Richardson recently declaring Lagway “a phenomenal leader.”1 This isn’t just standard former-player-to-current-player courtesy; it’s a profound endorsement, highlighting a quality often difficult to discern in young athletes, particularly those still navigating the dizzying transition from high school phenom to collegiate cornerstone.
Richardson, who himself electrified the Florida faithful with his dual-threat capabilities before becoming a top-five NFL draft pick, returned to Gainesville for community events, including his “Read Like a Gator” initiative and a free football camp.2 It was during these engagements that he offered his unfiltered assessment of Lagway, a quarterback he admittedly admired even during Lagway’s high school days.3 “He’s a great player. I like watching him ball. I was watching him ball when he was in high school, so just watching him play and do his thing, it’s amazing,” Richardson shared. But it was the deeper insight into Lagway’s character that truly resonated. “I think really his mental – you know, he’s young right now, but you can’t really tell. He doesn’t act his age at all. You know, he’s a phenomenal leader, and I’ve never seen him really get too high or too low on himself; he’s always trying to work. He’s always asking me questions about how to get better and do certain things, and I always tell him, ‘Man, just keep doing you and just keep working. Everything’s going to take care of itself.’”4
This sentiment from Richardson speaks volumes. For a player who understands the immense pressure and scrutiny that comes with being the quarterback at a program like Florida, to highlight Lagway’s mental fortitude and consistent drive is a testament to the young signal-caller’s uncommon maturity. Last season, Lagway was thrown into the fire earlier than anticipated due to Graham Mertz’s season-ending ACL tear. Despite being a true freshman, a time typically reserved for learning the ropes and adjusting to the speed of the college game, Lagway demonstrated a remarkable ability to perform under duress. He finished the season with 1,915 yards, 12 touchdowns, and nine interceptions, showing flashes of the “dual-threat quarterback with enormous potential given rare athletic frame and natural arm talent,” as described by 247Sports’ director of scouting, Andrew Ivins.5 His performance, especially his knack for deep passes, where he ranked fourth-highest rated by Pro Football Focus, hinted at a significant upside.
What makes Richardson’s observation of Lagway’s leadership particularly compelling is the context of their respective journeys. Richardson, in his own time at Florida, was a captivating talent, but also one who navigated a period of transition and, at times, inconsistency for the Gators. His pathway to the NFL was fueled by undeniable physical gifts. Lagway, while possessing his own elite physical tools, seems to possess a mental game that is already operating at a higher level than many his age. To hear Richardson speak of Lagway’s grounded nature, his ability to stay even-keeled regardless of the situation, and his relentless pursuit of self-improvement, paints a picture of a quarterback who is not just physically gifted but also intellectually and emotionally equipped for the demands of the position.
Indeed, Lagway’s leadership isn’t just perceived by former Gators; it’s evident in his approach to the game itself. He speaks of becoming a “situational expert” and emphasizes the importance of every point in college football. His reaction to challenges, like a tough spring scrimmage where he threw multiple interceptions, was not one of despair but rather a catalyst for dedication. “I had through like four interceptions, it was bad I ain’t never seen this coverage, they was going to two hole I’m like, golly, what is this? Let me get in that lab, let me figure some things out,” he shared, demonstrating a clear commitment to learning and growth. This humility and work ethic extend beyond the field, as he has shown a grounded perspective on NIL opportunities, viewing them as a means to support his family but maintaining that the NFL remains his ultimate goal. His philosophy, echoing Kobe Bryant’s famous “job’s not finished” mantra, of not celebrating prematurely, underscores a mature, team-first mentality.6
The weight of expectation on Lagway’s shoulders is substantial. After a freshman year where he effectively saved head coach Billy Napier’s job, the spotlight will only intensify as he enters his first full season as the undisputed starter. He’s already being ranked among the top college quarterbacks by national analysts like Joel Klatt and David Hale, and Pro Football Focus has even floated him as a potential No. 1 overall NFL Draft pick in 2027.7 This kind of hype can easily derail a young player, but Richardson’s insight suggests Lagway has the internal compass to navigate it. The fact that Lagway actively seeks out advice from Richardson, asking “questions about how to get better and do certain things,” highlights a genuine desire for growth and a willingness to learn from those who have walked a similar path.8 It speaks to a self-awareness and a hunger for knowledge that are crucial for sustained success.
Furthermore, Lagway’s impact is already being felt beyond his individual statistics. He guided the Gators to a 6-1 record in games he started as a freshman, including impressive victories over ranked opponents. The team’s overall momentum shifted with him under center, and there’s a tangible sense of optimism surrounding the program that hasn’t been present in years. This isn’t just about his arm talent or his athleticism; it’s about the confidence and belief he instills in his teammates. When a leader consistently demonstrates composure, an unwavering work ethic, and a genuine commitment to improvement, it elevates the entire group. Richardson’s observation of Lagway not getting “too high or too low” is a critical aspect of quarterback play, as the position often demands a steady hand through the inevitable highs and lows of a game and a season.
As Lagway continues his recovery from lingering shoulder issues that limited his participation in spring practice, the focus remains on his readiness for the upcoming season. But even with physical limitations, his continued mental development and vocal leadership have been lauded by the coaching staff.9 Quarterbacks coach Ryan O’Hara noted that Lagway is “definitely stepping into that leadership role, and that’s who he is.10 People follow him in general because he brings a spark to the team, he’s a playmaker, he does not fear the moment, and he’s aggressive in that way. So they follow him regardless. Now it’s about using that voice and that platform to try and get more out of the people around you. So he’s stepping into that role 100 percent and I think he’s doing a great job.”11 This internal validation from coaches, combined with the external praise from a successful alumnus like Richardson, paints a compelling picture of a burgeoning star who is far more than just a talented arm and pair of legs. He is, as Anthony Richardson so eloquently put it, “a phenomenal leader,” and that, more than any statistic, may be the most crucial ingredient in the Florida Gators’ recipe for future success. The Swamp is buzzing, and a significant part of that energy stems from the quiet, yet profound, leadership of DJ Lagway.
