DJ Lagway’s transfer to Baylor means that Florida will have a new starting quarterback in 2026.
Jon Sumrall is hoping to turn the fortunes of a program that is looking to return to prominence in the SEC. In 2018 and 2019, the Gators won a combined 21 games. They’ve finished with a winning record just twice since then.
Much of what happens will rest on who’s taking snaps behind center. Sumrall dipped into the portal to bring in former Georgia Tech QB Aaron Philo, who followed his offensive coordinator in Atlanta, Buster Faulkner, to Gainesville. Tramell Jones, Lagway’s backup in 2025, remained with the program. And Will Griffin, a four-star player in the 2026 high school recruiting class, has enrolled early.
All that said, it shouldn’t be a surprise to see that ESPN feels Philo will be the Gators’ starter in 2026.
“(Philo) understands Faulkner’s scheme and drew very good reviews while at Georgia Tech,” Eli Lederman, Max Olson, and Adam Rittenberg wrote. “Philo must show he can handle more volume at a program that yearns to recapture elite quarterback play. But his connection with Faulkner is significant here.”
Philo has more experience than anyone in Florida’s quarterback room in 2026. Can he help Sumrall’s first season at The Swamp be a successful one?
Sydney is an Atlanta-based journalist who has covered everything from SEC and ACC football to MLS, the U.S. men's national soccer team and professional tennis. His work has appeared on such platforms as SB Nation, Cox Media Group and FanSided.
