Florida State freshman defensive back Lagunza Heyward announced his return for the 2026 season on his social media channels on Sunday. Hayward posted a video (below) on his Instagram Story titled “Run it back.”
Heyward is expected to take a larger role at Florida State’s STAR/nickel back position after Sharif Denson exits the program. Aaron Gates, who also announced his return, also plays a nickel role, but Florida also lost Josiah Davis to the transfer portal.
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Hayward was a consensus four-star recruit out of high school who committed to Florida State from Tennessee for the 2025 draft class. As a true freshman, he played in 11 games, recording 12 tackles (seven solo), one sack, two quarterback rushes and 3.5 sacks (for a loss). His best game came against Mississippi State when he recorded six tackles (four solo) and 2.5 tackles for loss.
“Obviously, we had him on campus multiple times in the spring and summer,” former head coach Billy Nappi said of Hayward after he was signed.
“Kind of short. Just another player that we’ve been able to get on campus the last few weeks. In his heart, he knows he wants to be here. You’ve got to keep trying to beat these guys and they’ll probably get you second or third. If you play well, you can turn it around.”
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This article originally appeared on Gators Wire: Florida Gators football DB Lagonza Hayward re-signs with Gators