Duke University's tight end room enters the 2026 season with a blend of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, setting the stage for a potentially dominant offense in the ACC.
A Blocking‑First Approach
The group, anchored by preseason All‑ACC selection Jeremiah Hasley, is built around a philosophy of pounding the rock to open up the passing game. Head coach Dave Clawson has emphasized that strong blocking will create more opportunities for the quarterbacks and receivers.
Hasley, who started 21 of 32 games and amassed 48 receptions for 517 yards and eight touchdowns, leads a unit that also includes Louisville transfer Nate Kurisky. Kurisky brings four years of ACC experience, having recorded 16 starts, 50 catches, 410 yards and seven touchdowns at Louisville.
Jake Taylor, now in his fifth year with the Blue Devils, contributed six starts and 14 receptions for 108 yards last season, while returning players Tony Boggs and Brett Elliott add depth. Freshmen Jack Gaskins and Ben Moseley are expected to push for playing time as the staff evaluates the room.
Season Opener and Outlook
The tight ends will test their scheme in the season opener against Tulane on September 5. If the blocking unit clicks, Duke hopes to establish a run game that fuels a more explosive passing attack, aiming to make the offense ‘unstoppable’ according to the coaching staff.
With a mix of experience and youthful energy, the Blue Devils' tight ends are poised to become a cornerstone of Duke's offensive identity in the upcoming campaign.