Duke QB Steps In: Meet Dan Mahan

Dan Mahan entered Duke's football game against Virginia on October 23rd, stepping in for the injured Walker Eget. The redshirt freshman saw action after Eget sustained a hand injury during Duke's opening drive. Mahan's path to Duke was distinctive; he originally committed to Appalachian State but later changed his commitment. He redshirted during the 2025 season, observing Duke's ACC championship run. Originally from Burlington, just 30 miles east of Duke, Mahan was a versatile three-sport athlete at Williams High School. He was recognized for his baseball skills, leading his league in hitting for two seasons. On the football field, he demonstrated athleticism as a quarterback, wide receiver, safety, and punter. Mahan also has unique connections to the Duke program. Former Duke assistant Sam Story, who coached Mahan's father at Williams High School, spent decades coaching there. Mahan received his first college offer at a Duke camp before his junior year.