Duke concerned star QB Darian Mensah could enter transfer portal at last minute

Duke's star quarterback, Darian Mensah, plans to enter the transfer portal, according to multiple sources. Mensah, one of the highest-paid quarterbacks in college football with a $4 million annual deal, emerged as an all-ACC selection in his first year at Duke, finishing the 2025 season with 3,973 passing yards and 34 touchdowns. Mensah transferred to Duke from Tulane last offseason and helped the team to an ACC championship.

Despite previously indicating a return to Duke for the 2026 season, Mensah's name has resurfaced as a potential transfer target, especially for quarterback-needy programs. His contract with Duke reportedly includes stringent language, making it challenging for him to exit the deal.

Miami has shown interest in Mensah as it searches for a successor to Carson Beck, who is graduating. The Hurricanes have previously attracted high-profile transfers like Cam Ward and Carson Beck, contributing to their success in recent seasons.

Duke faces a difficult situation with limited time