Duke University’s football program enters the 2026 season wearing the ACC championship mantle, beginning with a home showdown against Tulane at Wallace Wade Stadium.
Third‑year head coach Manny Diaz is tasked with translating that success into another strong campaign, drawing on the momentum generated by the 2025 ACC title and the experience of a roster that has endured significant turnover.
Among the newcomers, redshirt freshman running back Jayvian Tanelus has already drawn attention after posting 48 and 38 yards in two fall scrimmages, and he sits third on the depth chart behind Nate Sheppard and CJ Campbell, suggesting he could see the field early.
At wide receiver, Brody Keefe, a 6‑foot‑3 inch freshman, is listed behind Jared Richardson and Blake Rohrer, yet his size and speed have coaches optimistic that he may earn playing time sooner rather than later, while fellow freshmen Jaivon Solomon and Jamien Little are also in the mix for receiving spots.
The early development of the run game will be pivotal, as the Blue Devils integrate new talent into their offensive scheme, and the outcome of the Tulane opener could set the tone for a season where depth and adaptability will be tested.