In a recent announcement, ESPN highlighted the top newcomers across the Big 12 conference, and it came as no surprise that Baylor selected a well-known name: DJ Lagway.
As spring football approaches, college teams nationwide are preparing to enhance their rosters after the 2025 season. The Baylor Bears are no different, facing the challenge of filling gaps left by graduating players, those leaving for the NFL Draft, and others transferring out. This year, the transfer portal has once again played a crucial role in reshaping teams, including Baylor.
With former quarterback Sawyer Robertson set to enter the NFL Draft, Baylor turned to the transfer portal to find his replacement, landing Lagway, the son of former Bear player Derek Lagway. ESPN”s Billy Tucker named Lagway as the most significant newcomer for Baylor”s roster.
According to Tucker, “Baylor needs to replace quarterback Sawyer Robertson (3,681 yards, 31 touchdowns) and a depleted receiving corps after losing its two leading receivers to the NFL draft. Lagway, arguably the most physically gifted quarterback in the transfer portal, is a legacy recruit and former top-five prospect who is returning home to Waco. His rare blend of size, mobility and arm strength creates a ceiling few quarterbacks possess. He can drop the ball in the bucket downfield, hit receivers in stride and his quickness allows him to extend plays and take off with his legs when needed.”
Despite struggling with injuries during his time at Florida, Lagway demonstrated his potential, notably completing 21 of 28 passes for 298 yards in a significant upset win over Texas. However, he also faced inconsistency, as highlighted by a challenging five-interception game against LSU. With 19 career starts, including 13 against SEC competition, Lagway brings valuable experience to the field.
The expectations for Lagway will be high locally, but Tucker cautioned against overinflated hopes: “Think of him as a Power 4 version of USF”s Byrum Brown — explosive but inconsistent. Spavital has maximized diverse talents such as Robertson, Geno Smith, and Kyler Murray, and Baylor”s explosive late-2025 surge proves the offensive infrastructure works.” Lagway will need to build rapport with a new receiving group while navigating the pressures of potentially reviving his college career.
If Lagway can remain healthy and utilize his impressive physical talents, he may play a pivotal role in bringing Baylor back into contention within the Big 12.
Baylor is clearly investing in a path to return to the top of the conference, hoping that Lagway”s dynamic skills will help restore their competitive edge. The pressure is on Lagway to deliver, as the hopes of the Baylor community rest on his shoulders.
Jacob Westendorf, a contributing writer for Baylor Bears on SI, has covered various aspects of sports journalism, including his work on the Green Bay Packers.
