Some hope for the Gators
Florida Receives Positive News After DJ Lagway’s Gutting Injury Update originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
On Monday night, news surfaced that DJ Lagway was in a boot, and parts of the Florida Gators fanbase got instantly worried. Lagway is their hope for next year, and injuries cannot be the undoing in this scenario.
However, while the star quarterback is still in a worrying situation, defensive back Aaron Gates has continued to recover from knee surgery. The Trinity Christian High School alum was panning out to be a key figure in their defense.
Last year, he started 10 games and secured 14 solo tackles. He also caught an interception. It was believed that he would step it up this year before his knee injury that made him miss the season finale.
At first, it was reported that he won't be back for the season start as well and Gates was scheduled to join the team later in their bid. However, latest reports from Florida Victorious’s Nick de la Torre suggest he's much closer to returning early.
“He’s close to being 100%. He’s ready to play. He’s more than ready to play,” de la Torre stated on the Stadium and Gale podcast.
Gates plays the STAR position— a hybrid role with combined responsibilities of a nickel back, cornerback and a safety. Set to play a pivotal role in the defense this year, he's a multi-talented, multi-positional athlete who can change the course of a game individually.
Gators ended their last season on a high wave and would want to continue to start off from there. However, they'll need their stars to be ready in time.
Lagway was cleared from his shoulder injury in mid-July. There was no prosthetic arms, no sling, he could throw the ball, properly. A positive sign. But then last night, it was reported that he was seen wearing a boot to cater to a minor lower leg injury.
Billy Napier and the Florida Gators are set to kick off their season against the LIU Sharks on August 31.
Related: Florida Dealt Unfortunate DJ Lagway News After Injury-Riddled Spring
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 29, 2025, where it first appeared.
Category: General Sports
