Duke Football’s Pursuit of Sustained Excellence
An overview of Duke’s four‑year resurgence, key coaches, returning stars and the challenges that lie ahead as the program seeks to become a consistent contender.
Jul 10, 2026
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Luke Mergott
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Luke Mergott across Football.
Duke Blue Devils Rebuild Defensive Line for 2026 Season
Duke University’s football program is turning its attention to a defensive overhaul as the 2026 season approaches. Head coach Manny Diaz and his staff have been busy in the transfer portal, seeking to replace the talent that departed for the NFL Draft and other programs. Among the returning pieces is redshirt junior linebacker Kendall Johnson, who has battled injuries but is now viewed as a cornerstone of the front seven. Coaches describe Johnson as an established veteran within the program, noting his 3‑star high school rating and the promise he has shown despite setbacks. The Blue Devils’ offensive unit is expected to take a step back, meaning the defense will carry a larger share of the workload if the team hopes to replicate the nine‑win campaign it enjoyed in 2024. With a deep linebacker corps and a revamped secondary, Duke believes the rebuilt defense can once again be the engine that drives success on the field.
Jul 8, 2026
ACC Student-Athletes Dominate 2026 Preseason All-America Selections
A look at the standout players from across the Atlantic Coast Conference who have been named to the Walter Camp, Phil Steele and Lott IMPACT Trophy watch lists for the upcoming college football season.
Jul 1, 2026
Duke Blue Devils’ Dynamic Five: Players Poised to Shape the Upcoming Season
The Blue Devils' preseason buzz centers on five players — Nate Sheppard, Jeremiah Hasley, Nick Del Grande, Luke Mergott and Javen Nicholas — each highlighted by a single word that captures their role and promise.
Jun 29, 2026
Duke Blue Devils’ Top Offensive Stars Shine in EA Sports College Football 27 Ratings
The first player ratings for EA Sports' College Football 27 highlight a potent offense led by a 90‑overall running back, while the defense features experienced linebackers and promising secondary pieces.
Jun 28, 2026
Duke’s Football Standouts Head to 2026 ACC Kickoff in Charlotte
Duke University will send three student‑athletes and head coach Manny Diaz to the 2026 ACC Football Kickoff in Charlotte, highlighting recent performances and the program’s momentum.
Jun 25, 2026
ACC Kickoff 2026 Turns Charlotte into the Heartbeat of College Football
The Atlantic Coast Conference’s annual kickoff event in Charlotte brings together 17 head coaches and over 50 top student‑athletes, setting the stage for a season marked by depth, tradition and national relevance.
Jun 24, 2026
Blue Devils Prepare for ACC Defense Amid Roster Shifts
Despite losing several NFL‑bound players, the Duke Blue Devils receive preseason recognition for standout performers as they aim to defend their ACC title.
Jun 13, 2026
Duke Blue Devils’ 2025 Recruiting Class Poised to Reshape the Roster
A look at how top newcomers Bryce Davis, Bradley Gompers, Bariate Kara and Nate Sheppard are expected to impact the Blue Devils' performance this season.
Jun 8, 2026
Duke Blue Devils chase another ACC crown in 2026
Duke’s recent ACC title and three nine‑win seasons under Manny Diaz set the stage for a 2026 campaign that will test the team’s depth and defensive evolution.
Jun 5, 2026
Blue Devils Poised for Another ACC Run
Duke University’s football team, fresh off an ACC championship, faces a pivotal 2026 season after losing star quarterback Darian Mensah, yet retains a strong defensive core and a coaching staff confident of another title run.
Jun 4, 2026
Duke Blue Devils Poised for a Breakout 2026 Season
Under head coach Manny Diaz, Duke’s football squad combines a fortified offensive line, a revamped defense and a dynamic running back corps, signaling a competitive outlook for the upcoming campaign
May 22, 2026
Duke Blue Devils’ 2026 Football Outlook: Three Scenarios for a Championship Run
Analysts outline three possible outcomes for Duke’s 2026 season, ranging from a historic unbeaten run to a realistic eight‑win campaign that still tests the program’s depth.
May 20, 2026