Four coaches who can save Florida QB DJ Lagway next year originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
As Florida stumbles toward the end of another frustrating season, the conversation around five-star quarterback DJ Lagway has shifted from promise to uncertainty.
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Benched after another uneven outing against Kentucky, Lagway’s future in Gainesville is suddenly in question. Freshman Tramell Jones Jr. took over late, raising doubts about whether the Gators can or will rebuild their offense around Lagway.
If they want him to stay, the answer may lie not in the depth chart but on the coaching carousel.
Lagway’s elite physical tools have been overshadowed by inconsistent mechanics and off-platform habits that Florida has struggled to correct. With Billy Napier unable to unlock his potential, the Gators may need a new voice to reshape their most important player.
Four coaches who could give Lagway the reset he needs
Chip Kelly-head coach/offensive coordinator
Kelly’s track record with quarterbacks remains among the strongest in the sport. From Marcus Mariota at Oregon to Dorian Thompson-Robinson at UCLA, his offenses have been built on tempo, rhythm and quarterback-friendly answers. After helping lead Ohio State to a national title run as offensive coordinator, Kelly’s name could resurface in Gainesville. His scheme would give Lagway structure without limiting creativity.
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Phil Longo- head coach/offensive coordinator
Longo isn’t flashy, but his resume is quietly elite. His Ole Miss offenses averaged more than 500 yards per game, and at North Carolina he helped mold Sam Howell and Drake Maye into record-setters despite contrasting styles. Longo emphasizes timing, balance and teaching—traits Lagway desperately needs.
Tyson Helton- head coach/offensive coordinator
Helton’s reputation as a quarterback fixer spans multiple stops. He helped turn Joe Webb into a dual-threat star at UAB, steadied Jarrett Guarantano at Tennessee and refined Sam Darnold during his rise at USC. Helton preaches “John Wayne composure.” A calm and controlled approach. Lagway has the confidence. Helton could supply the polish.
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Brian Daboll- head coach
If Florida wants a splash, Daboll is the dream. His work with Jalen Hurts at Alabama and Josh Allen in Buffalo cemented his reputation as a premier quarterback developer. Daboll builds systems around his players rather than forcing players into his system, a trait that could accelerate Lagway’s growth. Luring him back to college would be difficult, but the payoff would be seismic.
Where the former five-star goes from here
Lagway still possesses the traits that made him a top signee. A big arm, dynamic mobility and rare playmaking instincts. What he lacks is consistency and a mentor capable of rebuilding him fundamentally. Florida can start over at quarterback, or it can bring in a coach who knows how to turn potential into production.
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The right hire could reshape Lagway’s career and restore the Gators’ identity in the process. Another mistake and the program is setback years.
