As DJ Lagway faces less scrutiny and enjoys more freedom following his transfer from Florida, Baylor head coach Dave Aranda claims that his quarterback has been more at ease in the early days of his tenure with the program.
"He's very driven. There is a huge chip on his shoulder," Aranda said Tuesday during Big 12 Media Days, according to On3's Alex Byington. "I could see (that) on the recruiting trip. ... I could see someone that just wanted to be free. Like (he was in a) straight jacket, maybe, someone that is just all boxed in and boxed up and just wanted to be free, express himself, play free. And I think he's felt that (freedom) … at Baylor."
Lagway, who was the top-rated quarterback in the 2024 recruiting cycle, arrived at Florida with heavy expectations. He initially met the mark by leading the Gators to a 6-1 record in seven starts after beginning his freshman year behind Graham Mertz on the depth chart.
Lagway then struggled during the 2025 campaign, battling multiple injuries and on-field miscues. He finished his sophomore campaign with 2,264 passing yards, 16 touchdowns, and an SEC-high 14 interceptions.
Aranda has seen his quarterback smile a lot more since returning to his home state. The Willis, Texas, native is "totally engaged," according to Aranda, who added that Lagway's teammates "don't want to let him down."
Lagway is following in his father's footsteps after transferring to Baylor in January. Derek Lagway Sr. was a running back for the Bears from 1997-2001. Given that connection, the standout passer considers wearing the uniform an honor.
"It's a blessing to be here, seeing a lot of great people and just being around this atmosphere," Lagway said, according to Fox 44's Victoria Samuels. "It's amazing having this jersey on."
Baylor is hoping for a bounce-back campaign after producing a 5-7 record in 2025. The Bears will kick off their 2026 campaign Sept. 5 against Auburn at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
