In a seismic shift that reshapes the power dynamics of college football, 5‑star quarterback DJ Lagway announced his commitment to the Texas Longhorns, choosing UT under Steve Sarkisian over Florida, where he had previously signed his National Letter of Intent. This stunning flip not only injects elite talent into Austin but also cements Sarkisian’s growing reputation as a premier recruiter in the SEC.
🔥 The Backstory: A Texas Native Returns Home
Born and raised in Willis, Texas, Lagway lit up Texas high school football—throwing for over 4,600 yards, 58 touchdowns, and rushing for nearly 1,000 yards as a senior. His record-setting campaign earned him Mr. Texas Football and national acclaim as a dual-threat prodigy . Despite early reports tying him to his home-state powerhouse, he initially committed to the Florida Gators in December 2022, picking them over USC, Oklahoma, Baylor, and Texas A&M .
But this spring, whispers began circulating: Texas was courting hard—and wisely. Sarkisian, fresh off a 13–3 Peach Bowl semifinal run in Texas’s inaugural SEC season, made recruiting Lagway a top priority. Sources indicate Texas intensified contact in recent months, with Sarkisian offering the pitch of returning home, playing in front of Longhorn fans, and competing in the SEC at home.
🎯 Why This Commitment Matters
1. Immediate Impact & Signal to Recruits
Lagway’s talent is undeniable—and so is the message sent by his Texas commitment. A five-star QB is often the anchor of a championship-or-bust class. Lane synergy: pairing elite talent with Sarkisian’s offensive acumen positions Texas to make another deep playoff run in 2025.
2. Culture Reinforcement
Sarkisian’s tenure at Texas has emphasized culture, unity, and elite development. Already a proven recruiter—landing top talent like 4-star DL Vodney Cleveland—landing Lagway accelerates that trajectory .
3. SEC vs. Big 12 Perception Shift
Texas’s status in the newly formed SEC relies on maintaining, even expanding, its elite presence. A homegrown star choosing UT over his initial SEC destination in Florida underscores Texas’s newfound pull in the conference power structure.
📈 Sarkisian’s Recruiting Momentum
Since joining Texas in 2021, Sarkisian has revitalized the Longhorn program. The 2024 Peach Bowl appearance showcased his ability to both develop talent and win elite matchups . With Lagway in the fold, Sarkisian will have arguably the most coveted QB of the class, offering a template for attracting future elite Texas prospects.
🌟 The Long-Term Outlook
Lagway arrives in Austin with high expectations. He should compete for the starting job early—either in 2025 or 2026—bringing mobility, arm strength, and top-tier athleticism. His presence immediately boosts NIL opportunities in the Texas media market and provides Sarkisian with a highlight-worthy centerpiece.
🏁 Final Take
DJ Lagway’s flip from Florida to Texas is one of the most significant QB moves of the 2025 class—and one of Sarkisian’s headline-grabbing signings. It sends a loud message: Texas is building for sustained prominence in the SEC, pairing elite talent with elite coaching. As Lagway joins the Forty Acres, the phrase “Return to Glory” echoes louder than ever in Austin.
