Darian Mensah’s departure from Duke University is becoming increasingly contentious. Following Duke’s legal action against Mensah, a North Carolina state court issued a temporary restraining order that allows the quarterback to enter the transfer portal, but he cannot play for another school until the court reviews the case in a hearing scheduled for February 2.
Mensah made headlines on Friday by announcing his entry into the transfer portal on the last day it was open, amid speculation linking him to Miami. According to reports from Sportico, Duke views Mensah’s potential enrollment at another institution and commitment to play football as a violation of the NIL contract he entered with the Blue Devils, which allegedly stipulates that Mensah cannot engage with any other school regarding his NIL rights.
Darren Heitner, Mensah’s attorney, stated that the judge presiding over the matter denied Duke’s request to block Mensah from transferring and recused himself from future proceedings, notably because he was a season ticket holder for Duke basketball.
This situation is not unique, as legal disputes regarding transferring athletes have occurred before. For instance, Wisconsin previously sued Miami over the transfer of Xavier Lucas, claiming that Miami tampered with Lucas to entice him away from his NIL commitments with Wisconsin. Similarly, Georgia’s athletic association accused Missouri’s Damon Wilson of owing them the remaining balance of his NIL contract after he transferred shortly after signing with Georgia.
Mensah’s case, however, stands out due to the nature of his previous season’s success. After transferring to Duke from Tulane, Mensah had a stellar season, leading the Blue Devils to an ACC championship and throwing for 34 touchdowns in 2025. Despite committing to stay for the 2026 season, the recent developments have prompted Mensah to explore other opportunities just before the national championship game.
The outcomes of these legal battles could redefine how NIL agreements and transfer regulations operate within college sports, highlighting the ongoing complexities as athletes navigate their careers. This situation reflects a broader trend in college athletics, where player movement and NIL contracts are sparking legal scrutiny and changing the landscape of college football.