Graham Mertz injury: Florida’s starting quarterback forced out of Miami game after suffering serious injury; star freshman DJ Lagway makes debut

Florida’s starting quarterback Graham Mertz exited Saturday’s Week 1 game against No. 19 Miami after suffering a severe injury during the third quarter and had to go to the locker room. That cleared the way for freshman DJ Lagway to make his college debut on the Gators’ next offensive possession when his team trailed 38-10.

At the time of the injury, Mertz had 91 yards passing with 11 completions on 20 attempts.

Lagway, the top-ranked quarterback and No. 3 overall player in the 2024 recruiting cycle by 247Sports, enters this season as Mertz’s backup. At 6-foot-3, 239 pounds, Lagway is a true dual threat who is capable of providing a different look for Florida’s offense and could see extended action depending on the severity of Mertz’s injury.

“So, it’s been exciting for our offensive staff as well because they’re a little bit different types of players,” Florida coach Billy Napier said during the weekly SEC coaches teleconference earlier this week. “So, the scripting is unique and a lot of fun because you have a guy who is a veteran player that has a full understanding of the system, but maybe isn’t the same type of athlete. But, you have a young up-and-coming player who is very athletic, but maybe doesn’t have as much experience.”

The Willis, Texas native committed to Florida early in the recruiting cycle and remained firm on his commitment despite rumors of him flipping during the early signing period last December. Lagway committed to Florida over USC, Texas A&M and Baylor, among others.

Florida is entering a crucial season under Napier after going 5-7 during the 2023 campaign. Florida will play Samford at home on Sept. 7 before facing Texas A&M in its first SEC game.