Former Florida Gators quarterback DJ Lagway has officially committed to the Baylor Bears. This significant announcement was made on Sunday afternoon, marking a new chapter for the talented signal-caller. Lagway's decision comes after a recent visit to Baylor's campus in Waco, Texas, where he was seen alongside Bears head football coach Dave Aranda during a men's basketball game against Iowa State on January 7th. His presence at the game signaled strong interest, which has now culminated in his signing with the program.
Lagway's journey to Baylor involved a brief consideration of other opportunities. Just three days after his Baylor visit, Ole Miss attempted to recruit him, especially after their quarterback Trinidad Chambliss' waiver request for the 2026 season was denied by the NCAA. However, Ole Miss ultimately secured former Auburn quarterback Deuce Knight on January 11th, which paved the way for Baylor to finalize their agreement with Lagway. This sequence of events highlights the competitive nature of college football recruitment and the strategic moves made by programs to secure top talent.
The addition of Lagway is particularly impactful for Baylor, as he is set to replace their three-year starter, Sawyer Robertson. Lagway, a former five-star recruit, brings a wealth of experience, having accumulated 4,179 passing yards and 28 touchdowns against 23 interceptions during his two seasons with the Gators from 2024 to 2025. Despite Florida's challenging 4-8 season in 2025, where he started all 12 games and completed 63.2% of his passes for 2,264 yards and 16 touchdowns, Lagway entered the transfer portal on December 15th. He will have two seasons of eligibility remaining, offering Baylor a promising future under his leadership. Interestingly, DJ Lagway is also the son of Derek Lagway, who played as a running back for Baylor from 1997 to 2001, adding a poignant family connection to his transfer.
This move underscores the dynamic landscape of college football, where player transfers can dramatically alter a team's prospects. Lagway's decision to join Baylor represents a fresh start for him and a significant boost for the Bears, as they look to build a competitive program. His talent and experience are expected to invigorate the team and provide a strong foundation for future success, demonstrating the resilience and ambition inherent in collegiate athletics.