The University of Florida Gators are basking in the spotlight as two of their quarterback sensations, DJ Lagway and Tim Tebow, are set to grace the Deluxe Edition cover of EA Sports College Football 26. This marks a historic moment for Gator Nation, as Lagway becomes the first Florida player since Tebow to be featured on an EA College Football cover, reigniting the passion of fans and celebrating the program’s storied legacy.
DJ Lagway, the rising sophomore quarterback, has quickly become a household name in college football. His freshman campaign in 2024 was nothing short of remarkable, stepping into the starting role after an injury to veteran Graham Mertz. Lagway led the Gators to an impressive 6-1 record in his starts, throwing for 1,915 yards with a 59.9% completion rate and 12 touchdowns. His dual-threat ability, reminiscent of a young Tebow, made him a nightmare for opposing defenses, and his poise under pressure earned him national recognition. Analysts are already projecting Lagway as a top Heisman Trophy contender for 2025, and his inclusion on the CFB 26 cover solidifies his status as one of college football’s brightest stars.
Tim Tebow, a Florida legend and Heisman Trophy winner, needs no introduction. The two-time national champion (2006, 2008) previously appeared on the cover of NCAA Football 11, making him the first player to be featured on multiple EA College Football covers. Tebow’s college career was defined by his record-setting performances, including 88 passing touchdowns, 57 rushing touchdowns, and a plethora of Southeastern Conference (SEC) records. His return to the CFB 26 cover alongside Lagway bridges the gap between Florida’s illustrious past and its promising future, a nod to his enduring legacy in Gainesville.
The leaked Deluxe Edition cover, confirmed by The Athletic, features a star-studded lineup shot at the Rose Bowl, including current players like Bryce Underwood (Michigan), Garrett Nussmeier (LSU), and Jeremiah Smith (Ohio State), alongside legends like Tebow, Reggie Bush, and Denard Robinson. For Gator fans, seeing Lagway and Tebow together is a dream come true—a collector’s item that encapsulates the pride of the Orange and Blue. Social media buzz, particularly from posts on X, has amplified the excitement, with fans noting the cover’s potential to become a prized possession, especially if Lagway’s career trajectory leads to a statue outside The Swamp.
EA Sports College Football 26, set for release in July 2025, follows the triumphant return of the franchise with CFB 25, which became the best-selling sports video game in U.S. history. The inclusion of Lagway and Tebow underscores Florida’s prominence in the sport, tying them with USC, Texas, and Ohio State for the most cover appearances. As the Gators gear up for a playoff-contending 2025 season, this cover serves as a rallying cry for fans and a testament to the program’s enduring excellence.
