The highly-touted quarterback for the Florida Gators, has the talent and potential to become one of the best quarterbacks in the nation. However, a lingering shoulder injury, which has plagued him since last season, continues to be a cause for concern as the 2025 football season draws closer. Despite his impressive skill set, Lagway’s recovery remains uncertain, and his inability to throw during recent scrimmages has left many wondering about the Gators’ future under center.
Lagway participated in Florida’s recent scrimmage but did not throw the ball, a crucial aspect of his role as the team’s starting quarterback. As reported by On3’s Zach Abolverdi, Lagway took some snaps, handed the ball off, and even attempted a QB keeper, but he did not have the opportunity to throw. While it was good to see him back on the field, his lack of participation in passing drills is a troubling sign for both Lagway and the Gators’ offense.
Florida head coach Billy Napier has emphasized the team’s cautious approach regarding Lagway’s recovery. According to Napier, the team has consulted with multiple experts to ensure that Lagway’s shoulder injury is managed appropriately. “We’re being very cautious with him,” Napier explained. Lagway played a key role in keeping Napier’s seat cool last season, and Florida fans are hoping that their star quarterback will be healthy enough to continue his upward trajectory. However, with spring practices in full swing, Lagway’s lack of throwing has raised more questions than answers.
Lagway’s injury situation was discussed in detail on CBS Sports’ podcast by Josh Pate, who expressed concern over Lagway’s potential impact if he is unable to recover fully. “He figures to be one of the key names in the landscape of the quarterback picture this fall,” Pate noted, “but here is the problem: If he doesn’t play, then that can’t come to fruition.” The situation is becoming more dire with each passing week, as Lagway’s absence from throwing drills hampers his development and could limit his ability to lead Florida’s offense.
During his freshman season, Lagway showed significant promise. He started seven games for the Gators, throwing for 1,915 yards and 12 touchdowns, earning a spot on the Football Writers Association of America’s freshman All-American team. His potential to be one of the top quarterbacks in the nation is undeniable, but this shoulder injury raises doubts about whether he’ll be able to fully realize that potential in the coming year.
While the Gators have other quarterbacks on their roster, none possess the same combination of physical tools and potential as Lagway. The team is heavily reliant on his ability to stay healthy and perform at a high level. Florida’s success in 2025 largely hinges on Lagway’s development and health. However, if he’s unable to return to full form before the season starts, the Gators may be forced to make difficult decisions about their quarterback position.
The uncertainty surrounding Lagway’s shoulder injury has put Florida in a precarious position. As the spring practices continue, the Gators are hoping for more clarity regarding Lagway’s recovery and whether he will be ready to take on the starting role in the fall. Until then, the team is left to evaluate their options and prepare for the possibility that they may have to turn to another quarterback to lead the offense.
Head coach Billy Napier has expressed confidence in the depth of his quarterback room, but it’s clear that Lagway is the centerpiece of Florida’s offense. The coaching staff will be closely monitoring his progress and recovery in the coming weeks, hoping that he can regain his ability to throw and take control of the offense once again. With the Gators facing stiff competition in the SEC, they will need a healthy Lagway to remain competitive throughout the season.
Florida’s season opener is fast approaching, and the uncertainty surrounding Lagway’s shoulder injury is becoming a growing concern. If Lagway can’t return to full strength, the Gators will need to quickly adjust their plans and potentially rely on one of the other quarterbacks on the roster. However, none of the other options have proven themselves to be the same caliber of player as Lagway, making his recovery all the more crucial to Florida’s success in 2025.
Despite the setback, Lagway’s leadership and poise remain key assets for the Gators. Even though he has not been able to throw, his presence on the field and his experience from last season will likely play an important role in rallying the team. The Gators need Lagway not just as a quarterback but as a leader who can inspire confidence in his teammates.
As Florida moves forward in the spring, they are hopeful that Lagway will soon be able to return to throwing and show the form that made him one of the most highly touted quarterbacks in college football. However, the Gators will need to remain cautious and realistic, as a full recovery is not guaranteed, and the clock is ticking down to the start of the 2025 season.
In the end, Florida’s 2025 season may very well be shaped by Lagway’s recovery. If he can return to full health, the Gators will have one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the SEC. But if the injury continues to hinder his progress, Florida could find itself in a difficult situation as they search for a solution to their quarterback dilemma.