GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Despite the Gators' spring break downtime, sophomore quarterback DJ Lagway isn't taking a break from his training. Instead, he is in Jacksonville, putting in work with former Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson, who is currently with the Indianapolis Colts. This marks the first time the two have trained together, according to Richardson's agent, Deiric Jackson.
Lagway, listed at 6-foot-3 and 241 pounds, appears to hold a slight size advantage over Richardson, who stands at 6-foot-4 and weighs 244 pounds. The two quarterbacks have maintained regular communication since Lagway committed to the University of Florida shortly after Richardson declared for the 2023 NFL Draft.
Working alongside them is Dr. Tom Gormely, co-founder of CORTX Sports Performance, a facility focused on sports science and performance training. Dr. Gormely, known for his expertise in biomechanics and rehabilitation, is playing a crucial role in Lagway's recovery from an undisclosed injury to his throwing shoulder, as well as a lower-body injury.
Although Lagway has yet to throw during the ongoing spring practice sessions, he has been actively involved in drills and communicating with other quarterbacks. Lagway's injuries have limited his participation, leading coach Billy Napier to provide updates on the sophomore's progress. "We’ve got a really detailed plan. I think we laid that out," Napier explained. "The key is to challenge him, and he’s calling in the plays in some periods, which is healthy. Seeing it from a different perspective gives him a chance to get back in rhythm physically."
The limited practice time for Lagway has opened opportunities for his fellow quarterbacks, including Harrison Bailey, Tramell Jones Jr., and Aidan Warner, who have been receiving significant reps in the absence of the projected starter. Napier praised the growth shown by all three young players, stating, "It provides a great opportunity for the other players. Aidan, Harrison, and Tramell are getting significant reps and doing a really good job. You can see the incremental improvement with all three guys who are still relatively young."
Last season, Warner stepped in as Lagway's replacement when he suffered an injury. He completed 21 of 50 passes for 228 yards with three interceptions, showcasing both potential and areas for improvement that can benefit from this increased practice time.
As spring practice continues, Lagway's focus remains on his rehabilitation. Coach Napier emphasized that they are taking a thorough approach to Lagway's progress, balancing engagement with recovery. "We have to have a daily plan to keep him engaged," Napier noted, indicating that the team remains optimistic about Lagway’s future as a contender for the starting role in 2025.
By turning to the experience and expertise of Richard, the Gators are enhancing Lagway's journey, as he prepares for a pivotal year ahead. With strong mentorship and innovative training techniques at play, Lagway's determination signals a promising outlook as he aims for a starting quarterback role and perhaps even contention for the Heisman Trophy early in his career.
Ultimately, as Lagway gears up for the challenges ahead, his relationship with Richardson and the guidance from Dr. Gormely may prove invaluable, setting the stage for sustained success at the University of Florida.
