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1h ago

Duke’s Darian Mensah Enters Transfer Portal on Deadline Day as Miami Emerges Early Favorite

A reported exclusive NIL deal with Duke worth about $8 million over two years could complicate his ability to earn at a new program.

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Nov 16, 2024; Annapolis, Maryland, USA; Tulane Green Wave quarterback Darian Mensah (10) scores a touchdown during the first half against the Navy Midshipmen at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images/File Photo
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EL PASO, TEXAS - DECEMBER 31: Quarterback Darian Mensah #10 of the Duke Blue Devils warms up on the sideline during the second half of the Tony The Tiger Sun Bowl game against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Sun Bowl Stadium on December 31, 2025 in El Paso, Texas. The Blue Devils defeated the Sun Devils 42-39. (Photo by Sam Wasson/Getty Images)

Overview

  • Mensah announced his decision on social media Friday after submitting transfer paperwork just before the Jan. 2–16 portal window closed.
  • The All-ACC quarterback reversed a Dec. 19 pledge to return to Duke, where he was entering the second year of a roughly $4 million-per-year arrangement.
  • Multiple outlets identify Miami as the early front-runner for his commitment, though no destination has been confirmed publicly.
  • ESPN and other reports say Duke holds Mensah’s exclusive NIL rights, creating buyout questions and potential legal challenges that could affect any move.
  • Mensah threw for 3,973 yards and 34 touchdowns in 2025 to win the ACC title, and his exit leaves Duke thin at quarterback after backup Henry Belin IV transferred to Missouri State.