Billy Napier excited to add former Tennessee quarterback to roster

Former Tennessee quarterback Harrison Bailey announced he was transferring from Louisville earlier this offseason. He eventually committed to Florida, adding a depth piece to the Gators' stacked QB room, which budding star DJ Lagway leads.

Bailey was originally a Jeremy Pruitt commit, but he also spent one season in Josh Heupel's system before transferring to UNLV for a season and eventually spending the last two seasons at Louisville. 

It was a bit of a surprise that Bailey chose to commit to Florida after getting some playing time at UNLV and Louisville the past couple of seasons. He knew his primary role would be to serve as backup to Lagway. 

Bailey has thrown for 1,190 yards, 10 touchdowns, and three interceptions throughout his college career. He has yet to earn a full-time starter spot in college football, but his experience could make him a key contributor to the Gators' quarterback room. 

Florida Head Coach Billy Napier seemed excited when asked about adding Bailey to the roster. Lagway is still a young quarterback, and Bailey could serve as a mentor as he finishes his final year of eligibility. 

"I think we wanted to add a player that has some experience, that played in games; he kind of fit that profile," said Napier on Bailey. "I think Harrison has played a lot of football; he's prepared as a starter or backup a lot of weeks, so I think he's played in some good systems; there's a ton of carry over there, and the guy spins the ball well. He's an athlete, intelligent, quarterback that's got a good pedigree. He's a good add to the team."

Everything Napier said about Bailey is true. He would be an asset to any program willing to invest in him. He likely could have left the P4 ranks for an opportunity to play more snaps and try to make a push as a late-round draft pick in 2026, but he opted for a role in the reserves. 

Adding Bailey also adds more depth to the Florida quarterback room, which has some uncertainties in Lagway's health. Lagway missed some games in 2024 as he shared starting duties with Graham Mertz. 

"We got two good young players and obviously DJ coming back, so I think he embraced that," added Napier. "It's kind of like when you got Michael Jordan, nobody wants to be Scottie Pippen."

Ourlads has updated its depth chart with Bailey as the team's No. 2 quarterback, which indicates that Napier might like him more than initially thought.