Duke QB Darian Mensah Enters Transfer Portal, Becomes Top Available Signal-Caller
The final day of the college football transfer window just got a jolt of electricity. Duke quarterback Darian Mensah has officially entered the transfer portal, immediately becoming the most high-profile name still on the board. Mensah’s decision, submitted Friday afternoon, comes with major implications-not just for Duke, but for any program looking to upgrade under center.
Let’s be clear: this isn’t just another quarterback hitting the market. Mensah is a proven playmaker, and his 2025 campaign at Duke turned plenty of heads.
In 14 games, he completed 67% of his passes for 3,973 yards, 34 touchdowns, and just six interceptions. That stat line alone puts him in elite company, but it was the way he led Duke to an ACC Championship win over Virginia that really cemented his status as a game-changer.
And he did it all in his first year with the Blue Devils, after transferring in from Tulane.
Now, with two years of eligibility left, Mensah is looking for his next opportunity. But despite the obvious talent and production, it doesn’t look like Tennessee will be in the mix.
According to reports, the Vols aren’t planning to pursue him. Instead, all signs point to Miami as the early frontrunner-a program that’s shown it's willing to open the checkbook when it comes to landing top-tier quarterback talent.
And that’s where things get complicated.
Mensah’s situation isn’t your typical transfer. He reportedly signed a two-year NIL deal with Duke worth a staggering $8 million-one of the bigger known figures in the college game.
That deal was set to run through this past season, and according to reports, Duke believes they hold exclusive NIL rights tied to that contract. Essentially, only Duke can cancel the agreement, which could make for a messy exit as Mensah looks to move on.
Still, Miami has shown it's not afraid to navigate the high-stakes NIL waters. The Hurricanes were in the mix for Sam Leavitt and reportedly made a strong push for Ty Simpson with a significant financial offer. If they believe Mensah is the right fit, they’ve got the resources-and the recent track record-to make a serious play.
For now, Mensah instantly becomes the most intriguing name in the portal. He’s got the arm, the poise, and the production. The only question is: who’s willing-and able-to meet the price tag?