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Darian Mensah Announces Career Decision on Friday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated Dec 19, 2025 11:05 AM ET

Duke Blue Devils quarterback Darian Mensah emerged as one of college football’s breakout stars in 2025. He led Duke to an 8-5 record, including 6-2 in conference play, and an outright ACC championship, the program’s first since 1962. Mensah’s efficient passing and big‑game performances helped the Blue Devils compete in a Power 4 conference and opened up the offense in his first full season leading the unit.

Mensah led the ACC in passing yards (3,646) and passing touchdowns (30) this past season and drew attention from NFL evaluators with his high output, efficiency and leadership. He earned recognition from draft analysts, including ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr., who ranked him among the top five quarterback prospects for 2026.

Following an impressive year, questions arose about whether Mensah would return to Duke for another season or declare for the 2026 NFL Draft.

Duke Blue Devils quarterback Darian Mensah (10).David Butler II-Imagn Images

On Friday, however, a new report confirmed he will stay in school for another year. Per ESPN’s Pete Thamel, Mensah has informed Duke that he will return to the program for his redshirt junior season.

This comes after a season in which Mensah showcased his arm strength and accuracy in key wins, including a 45-33 victory over the NC State Wolfpack, where he completed 19 of 28 passes for 269 yards and three touchdowns. Mensah also had a dominant performance in Duke’s 38-3 road win against the Syracuse Orange, completing 22 of 28 passes for 268 yards and two scores.

Sources: Duke QB Darian Mensah will be returning to Duke for his redshirt junior year after exploring entering the NFL draft. He’s informed Duke of his decision. Mensah led the ACC in passing yards and ranks No. 5 in Mel Kiper Jr.’s quarterback rankings for the 2026 Draft. pic.twitter.com/JIOjPpzU6q
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) December 19, 2025

He threw for 361 yards and four touchdowns in a thrilling 46-45 win against the Clemson Tigers , earning ACC Quarterback of the Week honors. He capped the regular season with a 49-32 victory over the Wake Forest Demon Deacons, finishing 24 of 35 for 268 yards and adding his first rushing touchdown of the year.

Mensah’s decision to return is significant for Duke’s 2026 outlook. His presence stabilizes one of the ACC’s most potent offenses and provides continuity under center as the Blue Devils pursue another title run and potential College Football Playoff positioning.

Mensah and the Blue Devils will meet the Arizona State Sun Devils (8-4) in the Sun Bowl at 2 p.m. Dec. 31 on CBS and Paramount+.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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