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David Pollack Names Struggling SEC QB Affecting Team Momentum

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matt De Lima | Last updated Aug 1, 2025 2:13 PM ET

Florida Gators quarterback DJ Lagway returned to Gainesville this offseason to electrify a team hungry for success on the heels of his impressive freshman campaign.

But after battling multiple injuries, including a recent calf issue, Lagway's progression and Florida's overall momentum are facing major hurdles.

During a recent episode of his podcast, "See Ball Get Ball," college football analyst David Pollack highlighted how critical spring practice reps are for quarterbacks. Missing these reps due to injuries, as Lagway has, greatly impacts the synchronization between a quarterback and his receivers.

Pollack emphasized, "Timing with the quarterback and receivers—there's nothing bigger than that."

Lagway, who previously missed substantial springtime action with a shoulder issue, recently faced another setback with a calf injury. This latest injury briefly required Lagway to wear a walking boot, prompting significant concern within the Gators' camp as practices began.

Update on DJ Lagway’s Recent Calf Injury

The calf injury isn't expected to sideline Lagway long-term, according to Gators Online insider Zach Abolverdi.

On "The Paul Finebaum Show," Abolverdi reported, "It’s not something that is expected to be a long-term thing or keep him out of camp, but it did have him hobbling around and limping."

Lagway has shed the boot and is gradually improving, aiming for a timely return to practice.

Lagway's health remains day-to-day, with hopes he’ll participate in the team's first scrimmage scheduled for August 9. Florida plans an open practice shortly, providing coaches and media their first look at Lagway’s recovery status in live drills.

How Injuries Have Impacted Lagway’s Development

This calf injury is just the latest setback in a challenging year for Lagway. Last season, he was carted in a crucial game against Georgia with a hamstring injury. The Gators lost that game, 34-20. Subsequently, Lagway missed the next week's game against Texas, a blowout loss, 49-17.

His shoulder injury, which Lagways played through last season, lingered through the spring, limiting him from team throwing activities.

Abolverdi stressed the significance of Lagway's injuries, noting that the quarterback made remarkable plays last year despite his struggles with his shoulder.

The offseason was dedicated to strengthening and recovery, making this latest calf issue particularly disheartening.

With Florida’s success heavily dependent on Lagway’s availability and effectiveness, every practice rep he misses affects team chemistry and performance. Gators fans and staff are hopeful that Lagway recovers swiftly, returning to form in time for their season opener against LIU on Aug. 30.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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