(BCSNN) — Florida quarterback DJ Lagway returned to practice Saturday for the first time since suffering a strained calf muscle earlier this summer, a promising sign for the Gators as they prepare for the 2025 season opener against Long Island on Aug. 30. Lagway, wearing a sleeve on his left leg, participated in limited reps and threw passes during individual drills, marking a key step in his recovery.

The sophomore Heisman hopeful has battled a series of injuries since arriving in Gainesville, including a hamstring strain last fall, a shoulder injury that sidelined him during spring practice, and sports hernia surgery that lingered from high school. Head coach Billy Napier said Lagway remains “day-to-day” but praised his progress. “He’s made a lot of quick progress,” Napier said. “We’re monitoring it closely, and we expect his workload to increase steadily”.

Lagway’s health is central to Florida’s hopes in 2025. After taking over for injured starter Graham Mertz last October, Lagway led the Gators to a 6–1 record in games he started and finished, throwing for 1,915 yards, 12 touchdowns, and nine interceptions. His late-season surge included wins over ranked opponents LSU and Ole Miss, and a standout 305-yard performance in the Gasparilla Bowl against Tulane.

Despite his success, Lagway’s limited availability this offseason has raised concerns about chemistry with new receivers like Eugene Wilson III and UCLA transfer J. Michael Sturdivant. Analysts have noted that Lagway is “playing catch-up” in terms of timing and rhythm, which could impact Florida’s early-season execution.

Behind Lagway, Florida has journeyman Harrison Bailey and redshirt sophomore Aidan Warner competing for reps. Bailey, who previously played at Tennessee, UNLV, and Louisville, has yet to secure a starting role in his college career. Warner filled in briefly last season but struggled with consistency.

If Lagway can stay healthy, Florida could emerge as a dark-horse contender in the SEC. His return to practice signals optimism, but his durability remains something that everyone will be keeping an eye on. “The Gators may go as Lagway goes this fall,” Napier said. “He’s the face of our program, and we’re doing everything we can to keep him on the field”.