The transfer portal saw a stunning late entry on its final day that sent shockwaves through the college football world. Duke quarterback Darian Mensah entered the portal, immediately becoming the top available player.
The Blue Devils reportedly received early indications on Jan. 16 that Mensah was considering the move. Hours later, the quarterback made it official with a post on X announcing his decision.
“I’m forever grateful for Duke and the coaching staff. Thank you Duke family for everything,” Mensah wrote. “This wasn’t an easy decision, but after talking with my family, I believe it’s in my best interest to enter the transfer portal.”
The move leaves Duke in a difficult position, suddenly without its starting quarterback — one the program expected to have for at least one more season. That reality has the Blue Devils quickly making calls.
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Duke Interested in Former Florida QB
Duke appeared blindsided by the timing of Mensah’s decision, which came just hours before the portal window was set to close. As a result, the staff has been forced into scramble mode while searching for a quarterback for the 2026 season.
According to CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz and Chris Hummer, Duke has now turned its attention to former Florida quarterback DJ Lagway as a potential replacement.
“Sources tell me and @chris_hummer that one of the quarterbacks now of interest to Duke as a potential replacement for Darian Mensah is former Florida star QB DJ Lagway, who has been on the verge of heading to Baylor but hasn’t signed yet,” Zenitz reported.
That development only adds to the chaos surrounding the portal. Lagway, a former highly touted recruit, committed to Baylor on Jan. 8 with plans to sign “in the near future.”
At the time, all signs pointed toward that commitment holding firm, especially after Lagway’s father, Derek Lagway Sr., changed his Instagram profile picture to an image of his son wearing Baylor gear. Lagway Sr. played running back at Baylor.
Darian Mensah’s Transfer Comes With Major Hurdles
As for Mensah, he was immediately linked to the Miami Hurricanes, though completing a transfer may not be simple.
Multiple reports indicate Mensah’s two-year, $4 million NIL deal with Duke could prevent him from transferring without either a significant buyout, legal ramifications — or both.
“Like most rev-share contracts, Duke’s deal prohibits another university from using Mensah’s NIL — a legal entanglement that must be resolved,” Yahoo Sports’ Ross Dellenger said.
“If a buyout is paid by Mensah’s new school — possibly the value of the contract ($4M) — it will be reduced from the revenue-share pool of his new school, according to House settlement rules.”
Regardless of what happens with Mensah, Duke still must do its due diligence in securing a quarterback for next season should the situation resolve in his favor.
Lagway was one of the earlier quarterbacks to enter the portal, with a $2 million NIL value. Following the firing of Billy Napier and the subsequent hiring of Jon Sumrall at Florida, the former five-star recruit opted to part ways with the Gators.
Lagway’s first season as a starter was inconsistent, as he threw for 2,264 yards, 16 touchdowns and 14 interceptions. Still, a change of scenery could be what he needs. The question now is whether that future remains at Baylor — or shifts to Duke.
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