Darian Mensah, Top-Rated QB in Transfer Portal, Commits to Duke

Transfer quarterback Darian Mensah, the top-rated player in ESPN‘s transfer portal rankings, has committed to Duke University, he announced on Wednesday. Mensah, a redshirt freshman, will have three years of eligibility remaining with the Blue Devils.

Mensah made the decision after a recent visit to Duke’s campus, where he was impressed by the team’s offensive line and the overall atmosphere. He also attended a Duke basketball game at Cameron Indoor Stadium on Tuesday night, further solidifying his choice.

At Tulane, Mensah had a standout season, leading the Green Wave to a 9-4 record and the AAC title game. He threw for 2,723 yards and 22 touchdowns, completing 65.9% of his passes and leading the AAC in both completion percentage and efficiency.

Mensah’s rise to prominence was one of the most unexpected in college football this season. He began the year as the No. 3 quarterback at Tulane but won the starting job during fall camp and maintained it throughout the season. His performance included an eight-game win streak that ended with a loss to Memphis on November 8.

Duke, which had a 9-3 regular season and is set to play Ole Miss in the Gator Bowl, saw starting quarterback Maalik Murphy transfer out recently. Mensah’s commitment is a significant boost for the program. He praised Duke coach Manny Diaz, saying, “He gets you going; he’s legit. They have a legit defensive line. He’ll take this team as far as we want to go.

The allure of a Duke education was also a key factor in Mensah’s decision. “It’s a prestigious university, and a great education is also important to me,” he said. “It’s just a family out here. I wanted to be part of that).