Florida to start QB DJ Lagway with Graham Mertz (concussion) ailing

Field Level Media|published: 09/04/2024, 8:12pm EDT

Aug 31, 2024; Gainesville, Florida, USA; Florida Gators quarterback DJ Lagway (2) runs with the ball against the Miami Hurricanes during the second half at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images

Florida quarterback Graham Mertz is expected to miss the game against Samford on Saturday due to a concussion and freshman DJ Lagway has been tabbed to start in his place.

Mertz was injured in the third quarter of the Gators' 41-17 loss to Miami on Saturday. He has yet to practice this week.

Lagway replaced Mertz against Miami and completed 3 of 6 passes for 31 yards and one interception.

Florida coach Billy Napier praised Lagway, who was the National Gatorade Player of the Year last season while playing for Willis High, located about 50 miles north of Houston. He enrolled at Florida in January and participated in spring drills.

"I think he did a lot of good things, in particular the second drive where we got to some things where he had success," Napier said of Lagway's performance against Miami. "... One of the positives was he had some success and we were able to go down and score a touchdown with him in the game. Obviously he's a young player, but he'll continue to work and improve. He's got a bright future."

Mertz was 11-of-20 passing for 91 yards and one interception before being injured.

Also, safety Asa Turner (knee) and Devin Moore (shoulder) are among the other Florida players slated to miss the game.

--Field Level Media