Florida faces a critical decision about five-star quarterback DJ Lagway as another disappointing season winds down.
The Gators benched Lagway after his struggles against Kentucky. Freshman Tramell Jones Jr. took over in the fourth quarter, creating questions about Florida’s commitment to building around their most talented player.
Lagway’s future in Gainesville may depend less on his performance and more on who’s calling plays next season.
The quarterback’s arm strength and mobility haven’t changed since he arrived as a top recruit. But his mechanics remain inconsistent. His decision-making under pressure needs work.
Billy Napier hasn’t been able to fix those issues.
Florida might need a new offensive mind to unlock Lagway’s potential. The right coordinator or head coach could turn the former five-star into the player scouts projected him to become.
Four coaches who could develop Lagway
Chip Kelly has built his reputation on developing quarterbacks. He turned Marcus Mariota into a Heisman winner at Oregon. He helped Dorian Thompson-Robinson break records at UCLA.
Kelly just finished helping Ohio State reach the College Football Playoff as offensive coordinator. His up-tempo system emphasizes quick decisions and rhythm passing – exactly what Lagway needs to improve.
Kelly’s offenses give quarterbacks clear reads and multiple options. That structure could help Lagway play faster and more confidently.
Phil Longo doesn’t generate headlines, but he gets results. His Ole Miss offenses averaged over 500 yards per game. At North Carolina, he developed both Sam Howell and Drake Maye into NFL prospects.
Longo adapts his system to fit his quarterback’s strengths. He emphasizes timing and footwork in practice. Those fundamentals are exactly where Lagway struggles most.
The coordinator’s patient teaching style could help Lagway break bad habits without losing his natural playmaking ability.
Tyson Helton has earned a reputation as a quarterback fixer. He helped Joe Webb become a dual-threat star at UAB. He steadied Jarrett Guarantano at Tennessee and refined Sam Darnold at USC.
Helton preaches what he calls “John Wayne composure” – staying calm under pressure. Lagway has the confidence to make big throws. Helton could teach him when not to force them.
Brian Daboll represents the dream scenario for Florida. He helped develop Jalen Hurts at Alabama and turned Josh Allen into an MVP candidate in Buffalo.
Daboll builds his offense around his quarterback’s strengths rather than forcing players into predetermined roles. That flexibility could accelerate Lagway’s development significantly.
Convincing Daboll to leave the NFL would be challenging. But landing him would transform Florida’s offense immediately.
What happens next for Lagway
Lagway still has the tools that made him a top recruit. His arm strength allows him to make throws most quarterbacks can’t attempt. His mobility creates plays when protection breaks down.
What he needs is consistency and proper coaching.
Florida can start over with a new quarterback, or they can bring in someone who knows how to develop elite talent. The right hire could salvage Lagway’s career and restore the Gators’ offensive identity.
Another coaching mistake could set the program back for years.
