Florida starting QB 2024: Who will start for Billy Napier's team in Week 11
Florida coach Billy Napier has had quarterback issues in 2024, with initial starter Graham Mertz being ruled out for the season with an ACL injury on Oct. 12. Since then, freshman DJ Lagway has taken over starting duties for the Gators. That is until he suffered a hamstring injury against the Georgia Bulldogs in Week 10.
While the injury doesn't seem to be a season-ending one, his participation in the Gators clash with the No. 5 Texas Longhorns in Week 11 remains uncertain. The matter is a game-time decision, although back on Monday, Napier expressed some positivity when speaking with On3's Pete Nakos.
"The good news is we have positive information on that front, we do think that the injury is less significant," the coach said. "We do think there's a pathway for recovery and a return.
"He's been doing well so far this morning, so we have not completely ruled him out, and I think a lot of that will be to be determined as we move our way throughout the week."
In his stead, walk-on quarterback Aidan Walker took to the field against Georgia. He threw for only 96 yards, with an interception and no touchdowns. The freshman admittedly had a tough time against the No. 2 school in the nation.
Lagway is currently listed as questionable for the Saturday clash, according to the SEC availability report. What On3 also reports is that, as a Texas native, Lagway has a high desire to start against the flagship program of his home state. The expectation is that Lagway will start, although if he's unable due to injury, Walker will take his place.
DJ Lagway's numbers in 2024 for Florida
Through eight appearances, Lagway has thrown for 1071 yards, with six touchdown passes and five interceptions. His completion percentage stands at 60.9%, and he has a QBR of 63.1. He has also run for 114 yards in 37 carries, although he has no rushing touchdowns.
His best game came early in the year, against the Samford Bulldogs, when he was filling in for Graham Mertz, who was out with a concussion. Florida won the game 45-7, while Lagway recorded 456 passing yards with three touchdowns.