Florida QB DJ Lagway's father drops two-worded message for Billy Napier after his extension

The Florida Gators, under embattled coach Billy Napier, have had a turbulent season that started with a blowout 41-17 loss to the Miami Hurricanes. This defeat immediately put the coach on the hot seat.

Since then, there has been speculation about Napier's future as the Gators lurched from one disaster to the next.

After pushing coach Kirby Smart's Georgia Bulldogs to the very end in a 34-20 loss in Week 10 of college football action, there were signs of improvement for the Gators. This was despite the season-ending injury to quarterback Graham Mertz and the subsequent injury to backup QB DJ Lagway.

On Thursday, Florida athletic director Scott Stricklin announced that Billy Napier would return next season as the Gators coach to mixed reactions.

“I wanted to let you know that Billy Napier will continue as head football coach of the Florida Gators,” Stricklin wrote. “As we’ve seen these past several weeks, the young men on this team represent what it means to be a Gator. Their resolve, effort and execution are evident in their performance and growth each week — building a foundation that promises greater success next season and beyond.”

DJ Lagway's father, Derek Lagway Sr., posted an enthusiastic reply to the message from Stricklin on X.

"Yessir!!! GoGators," Derek Lagway tweeted.

Billy Napier given public vote of confidence

The public vote of confidence by Florida athletic director Scott Stricklin is a huge boost for Billy Napier as he attempts to stabilize the Gators during a tumultuous season.

The Gators almost pulled off an upset win against the No. 8 Tennessee Volunteers in Week 8 of college football action. They ended up with a narrow 23-17 overtime loss, followed by a 48-20 beatdown of the Kentucky Wildcats and the thriller against the Georgia Bulldogs, showing their progress.

“UF’s commitment to excellence and a championship-caliber program is unwavering,” Stricklin wrote. “In these times of change across college athletics, we are dedicated to a disciplined, stable approach that is focused on long-term, sustained success for Gator athletes, recruits and fans. I am confident that Billy will meet the challenges and opportunities ahead.”

Billy Napier is up against a tough schedule to end the season with games against the Texas Longhorns, Ole Miss Rebels, LSU Tigers and the similarly troubled Florida State Seminoles.

With a 15-18 record in his Florida career, Napier will attempt to avoid another losing season and clinch bowl eligibility for the Gators to salvage the season.