In a thrilling development for college football fans, EA Sports has officially confirmed that Florida Gators quarterback DJ Lagway and legendary former Gators quarterback Tim Tebow will grace the deluxe edition cover of EA Sports College Football 26. This announcement, made on May 27, 2025, has sparked excitement among Gator Nation, uniting the past and present of Florida football in a historic collaboration. The inclusion of these two quarterbacks not only celebrates the rich legacy of the University of Florida but also highlights the bright future of the program, with Lagway emerging as a rising star and Tebow cementing his iconic status.
The EA Sports College Football franchise, which returned in 2024 after an 11-year hiatus, has become a cultural phenomenon, fueled by the introduction of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rights that allow current players to be featured alongside legends. The deluxe edition of College Football 26, set for release on July 7, 2025, with early access for MVP bundle and deluxe edition buyers, showcases a star-studded lineup of current and former players, including Lagway and Tebow. This marks the third time a Florida Gator has appeared on the game’s cover, following Danny Wuerffel in NCAA Football 98 and Tebow in NCAA Football 11. Notably, Tebow becomes the first player in the franchise’s history to appear on the cover twice, underscoring his enduring legacy.
DJ Lagway, a sophomore quarterback, has quickly become one of the most promising talents in college football. As a true freshman in 2024, Lagway stepped into the spotlight after injuries to starter Graham Mertz forced him into action. He delivered an impressive 6-1 record in seven starts, throwing for 1,915 yards, 12 touchdowns, and nine interceptions, with a standout performance in the Gasparilla Bowl against Tulane, where he recorded 305 passing yards and a touchdown. His ability to throw deep balls—ranking second in the FBS with nine completions of 30-plus yards—has drawn praise from analysts and former players like Tebow, who called him the “future of Florida football.” Lagway’s inclusion on the cover, alongside his $3.8 million NIL valuation, reflects his rising star power and marketability.
Tim Tebow, a two-time national champion (2006, 2008) and the 2007 Heisman Trophy winner, remains one of the most iconic figures in college football history. During his time at Florida, Tebow set Southeastern Conference records for career passing efficiency and rushing touchdowns, earning a place in the College Football Hall of Fame in 2023. His appearance on the College Football 26 deluxe edition cover, reportedly part of a “Legends” edition alongside former Michigan quarterback Denard Robinson, celebrates his monumental contributions to the sport. Tebow’s presence also bridges the gap between eras, as he has been a vocal supporter of Lagway, noting his potential to give opposing defensive coordinators “sleepless nights” with his dual-threat ability.
The cover shoot, which took place at the Rose Bowl, sparked buzz when a photo of Lagway and Tebow together surfaced on X, shared by Kurt Napier, brother of Florida head coach Billy Napier. The image, capturing the duo in Florida gear, symbolized the passing of the torch from one generation to the next. Fans have expressed overwhelming enthusiasm, with posts on X calling the collaboration a “historic” moment for Gator Nation. The deluxe edition cover also features other notable figures, including Alabama’s Ryan Williams, Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith, and coaches like Georgia’s Kirby Smart, further elevating the game’s appeal.
For Florida fans, this edition is poised to be a collector’s item, celebrating the program’s storied history and its promising future. Lagway’s rapid rise and Tebow’s legendary status make their joint appearance a fitting tribute to the Gators’ quarterback tradition. As College Football 26 gears up for its July release, the excitement surrounding Lagway and Tebow’s cover feature signals a new chapter for both the franchise and Florida football, blending nostalgia with the promise of greatness to come.
