Florida Gators quarterback DJ Lagway has recently demonstrated his unwavering commitment to the program by rejecting a substantial $6.7 million NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) offer from Tennessee, which reportedly aimed to entice him into the transfer portal. This move underscores Lagway’s dedication to finishing his college football career with the Gators, despite the lucrative financial incentive presented by a rival SEC school.
Lagway, a five-star recruit from Willis, Texas, was a highly sought-after prospect during his high school years. In the lead-up to National Signing Day, he faced intense recruitment efforts from several top programs, including Texas A&M, USC, and Clemson. Despite these overtures, Lagway remained steadfast in his commitment to Florida, stating that he chose the Gators because he felt wanted and valued by the coaching staff .
His decision to decline Tennessee’s NIL offer is consistent with his previous choices, emphasizing his loyalty and the importance he places on the relationships he has built within the Florida program. This move also highlights the increasing influence of NIL deals in college football, as programs seek to leverage financial incentives to attract top teams
Lagway’s commitment is particularly significant for Florida, as he is expected to be a central figure in the team’s offense moving forward. His strong performances during his freshman season, including setting a UF true-freshman record with 456 passing yards in his first career start, have positioned him as a leader on the field.
DJ Lagway’s decision to reject Tennessee’s NIL offer reaffirms his dedication to the Florida Gators and underscores the evolving dynamics of college football recruitment and player retention in the era of NIL
