GAINESVILLE, FL – The college football world is abuzz with electrifying news that bridges generations of Gator greatness: Florida’s rising star quarterback, DJ Lagway, is set to appear on the cover of the highly anticipated EA Sports College Football 26 video game. Even more thrilling for the Gator Nation, he won’t be alone. In a symbolic passing of the torch, none other than Florida legend and Heisman Trophy winner Tim Tebow will also be featured, making Lagway the first Gator since Tebow himself to grace the game’s cover.
Whispers of the cover shoot had been circulating for weeks, with leaked photos showing a collection of current college football standouts, esteemed head coaches, and beloved legends. Among those images, a captivating photo of Lagway and Tebow together immediately ignited speculation, setting the stage for what promises to be one of the most iconic video game covers in recent memory.
This dual-cover appearance is a monumental moment for the University of Florida. Tim Tebow was famously the sole cover athlete for NCAA Football 11, cementing his iconic status following a career that included two BCS National Championships and a Heisman Trophy. For over a decade, no other Gator has held that coveted spot. Now, as the EA Sports College Football franchise makes its triumphant return, DJ Lagway steps into that elite company, signaling the immense hype and expectations surrounding his burgeoning career.
Lagway, a five-star recruit from the 2024 class, has quickly established himself as a dynamic force on the field. After an impressive true freshman season in 2024 that saw him lead the Gators to a 6-1 record in his seven starts, throwing for 1,915 yards and 12 touchdowns, the expectations for 2025 are sky-high. His agility, arm talent, and natural leadership have drawn comparisons to some of the game’s greats, and his presence on the cover is a clear indicator of his burgeoning stardom and the optimism surrounding the Gators’ future.
For Tebow, this marks his second appearance on an EA Sports college football cover, a testament to his enduring legacy and continued relevance in the sport. Since his playing days, Tebow has transitioned into a highly respected college football analyst for ESPN and the SEC Network, a successful author, and a dedicated philanthropist through the Tim Tebow Foundation. His inclusion on the CFB26 cover, likely as part of a special “Legends” edition alongside other former college football greats like Denard Robinson, highlights the game’s commitment to celebrating the rich history of the sport.
“It’s incredible to see the past and present of Gator football come together like this,” remarked a long-time Florida fan. “Tebow was a game-changer, and Lagway has that same potential. To see them both on the cover is a dream come true for any Gator fan.”
The cover shoot itself reportedly featured a diverse array of college football personalities, including current players like Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith, LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier, and Alabama’s Ryan Williams, as well as prominent head coaches such as Kirby Smart of Georgia, Ryan Day of Ohio State, and Lane Kiffin of Ole Miss. This multi-faceted approach to the cover suggests EA Sports is aiming to create a comprehensive and engaging experience for fans, encompassing all eras and aspects of college football.
For Lagway, this cover appearance also marks a significant milestone in his Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) journey. The young quarterback has already established an impressive NIL portfolio, including partnerships with Lamborghini Orlando, Leaf Trading Cards, Gatorade, Nintendo, and Epic Games. His dedication to community impact is also noteworthy, having recently donated six figures in NIL earnings to women’s sports programs at the University of Florida and establishing his own foundation to support local youth initiatives. Being featured on the most anticipated college football video game further elevates his profile and influence.
The return of the EA Sports College Football franchise has been met with fervent excitement, particularly after a decade-long hiatus due to NIL rights issues. EA Sports College Football 25, the previous installment, broke sales records, demonstrating the immense demand for the game. CFB26 is expected to build on that success, and the decision to feature a mix of current stars and beloved legends on its covers is a strategic move to appeal to a broad audience of college football enthusiasts.
As the release of EA Sports College Football 26 draws closer, the excitement in Gainesville and beyond will only intensify. The image of DJ Lagway and Tim Tebow, two generations of Gator quarterbacks, united on the game’s cover, serves as a powerful symbol of the University of Florida’s enduring football legacy and the bright future that lies ahead. It’s a moment that truly captures the spirit of college football – honoring its past while celebrating its present and eagerly anticipating its future.
