The 2026 season for Duke Blue Devils marks their first opportunity to defend an ACC title since 1989, a milestone that has raised expectations across the program.
Quarterback battle takes center stage
The defensive unit has been reshaped after the offseason departures of safety Chandler Rivers, defender Caleb Weaver and depth player Terry Moore, leaving the secondary in flux.
Head coach Manny Diaz, who guided the team to the championship last year, has yet to name a starter at quarterback, insisting that the competition between Walker Eget and redshirt freshman Dan Mahan will be decided only after extensive evaluation.
Walker Eget, a San Jose State transfer, entered camp with the expectation of reclaiming the starting role, but limited recent ACC experience and an ongoing injury have opened the door for Dan Mahan, who is still refining his mechanics and decision‑making.
Diaz has declined to set a timeline for the decision, emphasizing that the best option will emerge only after both candidates receive ample reps in practice and game‑like scenarios.
Fall camp began earlier this week, and both Eget and Mahan have taken every snap, allowing coaches to assess chemistry with the revamped receiving corps and overall offensive rhythm.
Defensive overhaul
The loss of key defensive talent forces the secondary to integrate newcomers and rebuild cohesion, a process that will be closely watched alongside the quarterback race.
If the Blue Devils can stabilize both sides of the ball, they stand a strong chance of translating preseason optimism into another successful ACC campaign.