Florida head coach Jon Sumrall faced his first major roster decision Monday as quarterback DJ Lagway entered the transfer portal. While the move presents an early challenge in Sumrall’s tenure, his response reflected steadiness and a focus on what comes next.

“I’m not really going to comment on it,” said Sumrall during Monday’s press conference. “Nothing but respect for DJ. Whatever he chooses to do, I’m going to love all those guys that are there or here, whatever they choose to do. I’m not really going to get into that too much.”

Lagway’s departure comes after weeks of uncertainty following Florida’s decision to move on from head coach Billy Napier. When the Gators hired Sumrall, Lagway appeared firmly in the picture, even taking center stage at the new coach’s introductory press conference, which felt like a public vote of confidence.

“I’m happy and blessed to be here,” Lagway said at the time.

Despite the coaching change, Lagway initially wanted to remain in Gainesville. He had chosen Florida for a reason, and sources indicated he was open to competition. But that confidence faded quickly. According to CBS Sports’ Chris Hummer, Lagway’s first meeting with the new staff did not go as expected.

“New Florida head coach Jon Sumrall questioned who Lagway is as a football player,” wrote Hummer. “The new staff opted to challenge the high-priced quarterback, pushing him on his competitiveness and work ethic.”

As questions surfaced about who he is as a quarterback, staying in Gainesville began to feel uncertain to Lagway. Although those close to the program describe Lagway as a relentless worker, he didn’t feel that was clearly laid out by the new staff.

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“He (Lagway) didn’t care if they brought someone else in,” said one source. “He just wanted to hear, ‘You have the ability—and we want to coach it out of you.'”

After those conversations, Lagway no longer believed Florida offered his best path forward. By Monday morning, reports of his decision surfaced, and Lagway soon confirmed it himself. Once reports surfaced Monday morning, Lagway confirmed it himself.

DJ Lagway once looked like the future in Gainesville. As a freshman, he flashed star power, going 6–1 as a starter. But year two told a different story. Stunted by multiple injuries and a lack of reps in the offseason, Lagway struggled this season with 2,264 yards and 14 interceptions. After two seasons, the QB moves on with a 10-9 record as the starter for the Gators.

Those turnovers may have raised questions about his potential, but his loyalty to the program always stood out. Now, he moves on in search of a new place to prove it.

What’s next for DJ Lagway?

After initially wanting to stay, DJ Lagway is set to find a new home for 2026. As for Lagway’s next stop, fit will matter as much as fame. Here, expect a crowded bidding room.

The Miami Hurricanes, LSU Tigers, and Baylor Bears are the most likely options, per Pete Nakos of On3.

Lagway enters the portal with real juice: 4,416 total yards and 29 TDs over two seasons. With that production and his talent, he could become this cycle’s Carson Beck. Although pressure will follow, top programs bring it, but so will opportunity. If the right staff can sharpen his tools and steady the moments, the buzz returns fast.

However, Florida isn’t waiting around. Here, Jon Sumrall was blunt at his introductory presser.

“We will use the transfer portal,” said the head coach.

The Gators are expected to go portal shopping for two quarterbacks, according to Steve Wiltfong. But both to compete with redshirt freshman Tramell Jones Jr. and 2026 signee Will Griffin.

Now it’s a waiting game: who will land Lagway, and who will take the reins as Florida’s quarterback of the future?