Darian Mensah’s Star Is Rising-And So Are the Questions About His Next Move
Darian Mensah didn’t just have a breakout season-he took the ACC by storm. The redshirt sophomore quarterback led the Duke Blue Devils to an ACC championship while putting up numbers that turned heads across the country. Now, with the season winding down, the football world is watching closely to see what his next move will be.
Let’s start with the facts: Mensah was the best passer in the ACC this year. He led the conference in both passing yards (3,646) and touchdowns (30), all while throwing just six interceptions and completing nearly 68% of his passes.
That’s not just efficiency-that’s command. He played with poise, precision, and a deep understanding of the game that belied his age.
It’s no surprise that NFL Draft buzz is beginning to build.
But the NFL isn’t the only potential path forward.
If Mensah decides to return to school instead of declaring for the draft, there’s been some chatter around a possible transfer. One program that’s been floated in that conversation?
The Florida Gators. With DJ Lagway entering the transfer portal and Jon Sumrall stepping in as Florida’s new head coach, there's a natural connection to Mensah-literally.
Mensah played under Sumrall at Tulane in 2024, and the two found success together before Mensah transferred to Duke. That familiarity could make Gainesville an intriguing landing spot should Mensah decide to explore his options. Tyler Forness of A to Z Sports even highlighted Mensah as a potential fit for Florida, citing both the prior relationship and the offensive weapons the Gators already have in place.
Still, it’s important to note that there’s been no indication from Mensah himself that he plans to transfer. In fact, if he doesn't go pro, all signs point to a return to Durham.
And there’s certainly a case to be made for staying put. Duke gave Mensah a platform-and a significant NIL deal-to showcase his talent, and he delivered.
The Blue Devils finished the regular season 8-5 and earned a spot in the Sun Bowl, where they’ll face Arizona State. Another year in Durham could give him even more time to refine his game and boost his draft stock, especially with the 2026 quarterback class looking relatively thin at the top.
Mensah’s journey has already been a winding one. He began his college career at Tulane in 2023, earned the starting job in 2024, and then made the leap to Duke.
Each move has been a step forward, and each stop has revealed more of his potential. Now, whether that next step is to the NFL or back to college-at Duke or elsewhere-he’s positioned himself as one of the most intriguing quarterback prospects in the country.
The decision won’t be easy, but one thing’s for sure: Darian Mensah has options. And after the season he just had, he’s earned every single one of them.