Duke quarterback Darian Mensah has made a surprising decision to enter the transfer portal, reversing his earlier commitment to return for his junior season. This announcement comes on the heels of a remarkable 2025 season for Duke football, during which the team clinched nine victories and secured the ACC championship, its first outright title since 1962.
With many key players expected to return next season, head coach Manny Diaz’s team was poised to build on its successes from the previous year. However, Mensah’s decision to leave has cast a shadow over these prospects. Initially, he had declared his intention to continue with the Blue Devils rather than enter the NFL draft, making this recent development unexpected.
Speculation has emerged regarding potential tampering by the Miami Hurricanes, with insiders suggesting that Mensah may be favored to transfer there shortly after entering the portal. As the Miami team prepares for the national championship game against Indiana, the situation has created an intriguing backdrop for both programs. Meanwhile, remaining players at Duke are continuing their offseason workouts, seemingly unfazed by the situation surrounding their former quarterback.
If Mensah does join Miami, the tension could culminate in an exciting matchup when Duke travels to Miami next season, offering the Blue Devils a chance to respond on the field. This development adds an extra layer of anticipation for the following football season.