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Forgotten Tennessee Vols QB is next man up at Florida with DJ Lagway injured

If Lagway does miss time this season, Bailey will take over the offense.
ByBraulio Perez|
Sep 18, 2021; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Harrison Bailey (15) warming up before the game against the Tennessee Tech Golden Eagles at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bryan Lynn-Imagn Images
Sep 18, 2021; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Harrison Bailey (15) warming up before the game against the Tennessee Tech Golden Eagles at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bryan Lynn-Imagn Images | Bryan Lynn-Imagn Images

We'd say we feel bad for the Florida Gators, but that's never going to be the case. We do feel bad for DJ Lagway, though, as he's reportedly in a walking boot and his status for fall camp is a bit unknown. Because of that, plenty of focus is now on former Tennessee football signal-caller Harrison Bailey.

In January, Bailey committed to Florida and he was expected to be the backup for Lagway in 2025. While the Lagway injury isn't a serious one, he's dealt with plenty of health issues over the past year. If he does miss any time and this lower-leg injury lingers, then the former 4-star Vols signee will be ready to take over the offense for Billy Napier and Co. '

Former Tennessee QB Harrison Bailey is the next man up should DJ Lagway miss time in 2025

Bailey has had quite the college career thus far. He signed with the Vols back in 2021, doing so as a 4-star prospect and the No. 3 pro-style quarterback in the country. He picked up 22 offers throughout his recruitment, picking the Vols over Alabama, Auburn, Florida and many others.

He spent two seasons in Knoxville before deciding to enter the transfer portal. in 2022, Bailey spent one season with UNLV before once again deciding to enter the portal. He suited up for the Louisville Cardinals in 2023 and 2024.

It seemed like maybe he would hang up his cleats, but he indeed took a winter official visit to Gainesville and decided to sign with the Gators. Obviously, Lagway is the QB1 and he's in line to have a huge year in '25. However, there's a reason Bailey was brought to town.

Napier sold him on the idea of being a reliable backup and to help mentor the youngster. At the same time, if Lagway does miss any action, Florida will have confidence in sending Bailey out onto the field to run the offense. Lagway being in a boot has a lot of people all over Florida concerned, especially with no one knowing how severe this issue is. Again, if he does miss any action this fall, Bailey will be fired up if his number is called.

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