The Duke Blue Devils entered the season as the defending ACC champions, a status that brings both expectation and scrutiny.
Head coach Manny Diaz acknowledges that the loss of several key contributors to the NFL has reshaped the roster, prompting a focus on developing younger talent.
Preseason Honors Highlight Emerging Talent
Nevertheless, the preseason accolades have begun to surface, with four Blue Devils earning spots on Phil Steele’s All‑ACC teams.
Kade Reynoldson, a junior punter from Queensland, Australia, was selected to the second‑team All‑America and first‑team All‑ACC, highlighting his impact on field position.
Jeremiah Hasley, a redshirt senior tight end, earned a preseason first‑team All‑ACC nod, underscoring his role as a primary receiving threat.
Freshman running back Nate Sheppard cracked the second‑team preseason list, signaling optimism about his potential to contribute immediately.
Veteran offensive lineman Matt Craycraft received a third‑team preseason All‑ACC honor, providing continuity along the front line.
Linebacker Luke Mergott, who delivered clutch performances last season, is projected to assume the MIKE role in 2026, adding experience to the defense.