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Duke QB Darian Mensah Eyes Transfer Portal Amidst High Stakes
16 Jan
Summary
- Star quarterback Darian Mensah is reportedly considering entering the transfer portal.
- Mensah earns $4 million annually, making him one of the nation's highest-paid QBs.
- Duke faces devastating blow if Mensah departs before January 16th deadline.
Duke officials are increasingly worried that star quarterback Darian Mensah might enter the transfer portal. Mensah commands an annual salary of $4 million, positioning him as one of the country's top-earning quarterbacks following a multiyear deal signed last offseason. His name has been consistently mentioned in discussions about potentially movable quarterbacks, with this speculation intensifying as the 2026 portal window nears its closure on January 16th.
Mensah had an exceptional first season with Duke in 2025, earning all-ACC honors. He finished second nationally with 3,973 passing yards and 34 touchdowns. Originally from California, the 6-foot-3, 205-pound passer transferred to Duke from Tulane last offseason. His partnership with Duke proved highly successful, culminating in an ACC championship and establishing him as an elite passer.
Despite earlier reports suggesting Mensah would return for the 2026 season and pass on the NFL Draft, recent days have seen his name resurface in transfer portal discussions. With many quarterback-needy teams lacking viable solutions, Mensah would instantly become the most sought-after prospect if he entered the portal. Duke is actively working to retain him, as his potential departure so close to the January 16th deadline would be a significant setback.
