Duke’s football program is gearing up for the 2026 campaign, opening the season on September 5 when the Blue Devils host Tulane at Wallace Wade Stadium. The team enters the new year riding the momentum of a 2025 season that delivered a 9‑5 record and the program’s first ACC title since 1989, setting high expectations for a repeat performance.
Roster reshaping and key additions
Coach Manny Diaz, now in his third year at the helm, will oversee a squad that returns ten starters but must replace seventeen players from the previous roster, among them quarterback Darian Mensah, who transferred to Miami. The departure of Mensah has opened the door for Walker Eget, the transfer quarterback selected to take the opening snap.
Nate Sheppard is expected to retain his role as the primary running back, providing continuity in the backfield. At wide receiver, Jared Richardson and Jeremiah Halsey are slated to assume prominent roles, while tight end Jeremiah Halsey earned preseason first‑team All‑ACC honors after being named the starter at that position.
The offensive line features returning veterans such as Jordan Larsen and Matt Craycraft, complemented by new transfers Nick Del Grande and Braden Miller, aiming to solidify the front protection. Defensively, young talents Bryce Davis and Kevin O’Connor have drawn early praise, while the secondary will benefit from newcomers Che Ojarikre and Dylan Flowers, whom Coach Diaz hopes will tighten up the unit.
Special teams will see considerable turnover after the loss of longtime kicker Todd Pelino and key return specialists, prompting the coaching staff to explore fresh options in the kicking and return games.
Looking ahead
Duke’s 2025 triumph has set a benchmark, and with Manny Diaz entering his third season, the Blue Devils are focused on building on that foundation. The blend of experienced returnees and promising newcomers creates a sense of optimism as the program aims to defend its ACC crown and make a deep run in the upcoming schedule.