Defensive Dominance Returns
Duke football enters the 2026 season with a clear emphasis on its defense, a unit that finished the previous year atop the ACC in sacks, forced fumbles and fumble recoveries.
The offseason saw key offensive contributors Darian Mensah and Cooper Barkate depart for Miami, but the team retains star running back Nate Sheppard, who will anchor the backfield alongside a revitalized rushing attack.
Among the defensive standouts is safety Andrew Pellicciotta, who as a freshman appeared in all 14 games and recorded 26 tackles; coaches expect him to battle for a starting role in the upcoming campaign.
The roster also features returning playmakers such as Manny Diaz, Chandler Rivers, Wesley Williams, Vincent Anthony Jr., Terry Moore, Caleb Weaver, DaShawn Stone, Patrick Smith-Young and Jonathan Patke, who together aim to sustain the unit’s momentum.
Duke’s recent history includes a 2025 ACC Championship powered by a potent offense, but the program now looks to translate that success into a defense‑first identity as it prepares for the next chapter.