GAINESVILLE, Fla. — After being named the MaxPreps National High School Player of the Year in December, the honors for Willis High School quarterback D.J. Lagway keep rolling in.
Lagway was named the Gatorade National Football Player of the Year on Friday.
Surprising him with the trophy was NFL Hall-of-Famer and former Florida star Emmitt Smith, who won the prestigious award for the 1986-87 season. Lagway received the award surrounded by family, coaches, and teammates while moving into the University of Florida, where he will play in the fall.
Lagway led Willis to an undefeated regular season and a deep playoff run, ending with a loss to eventual state champion DeSoto. He was 290 of 402 for 4,604 yards and 58 touchdowns on the season. He averaged 364.2 yards passing per game.
Gatorade said Lagway was chosen for more than just his on-the-field presence. The star has spent time giving back to his community by volunteering at eldercare facilities and community food banks. He's also done multiple public speaking events with younger students about how to succeed both academically and athletically.
“Selecting Lagway as the top high school football player in the nation is a testament to his hard work on the field, in the classroom and in his community,” said Gatorade President and General Manager Michael Del Pozzo. “His athleticism combined with his contributions in his community and classroom embody what it takes to be a Gatorade Player of the Year.”
Lagway joins an elite group that has a combined six NFL MVP awards, 31 Pro Bowl appearances, and six NFL first-round draft picks.
