After a preseason full of low expectations and predictions, Duke has started the 2026 college football season with a 4-0 record and entered the US LBM Coaches Poll for the first time this week.
As Manny Diaz’s team enters its bye week before traveling to Atlanta for an ACC showdown against Georgia Tech, here is how the positions have graded out a third into the schedule.
Quarterback: B+
Walker Eget has slowly settled into his role as Duke’s quarterback, making some crucial throws in the Blue Devils’ 31-27 victory over Illinois, while Dan Mahan showed why he is the future at the position with three touchdown passes on just seven attempts in the rout of William & Mary.
Running backs: A+
If there is a better running back in college football than Nate Sheppard, I haven't seen him.
The sophomore rushed for 116 yards and a touchdown on just nine carries this past week, but still leads the nation in rushing yards. CJ Campbell has shown flashes of dynamite, too.
Wide receivers/tight ends: B
Tight end Jeremiah Hasley has been the most consistent, while Jonah Burton, Jaivon Solomon and Jared Richardson are all showing signs of turning the corner. If Duke wants to contend for the ACC title, they will need those three to come up big.
Offensive line: A+
It’s one thing to run the ball. It’s another thing for an offensive line to pave the way for a running back when the defense knows that they are going to run the ball. Add in the fact that they have allowed just one sack in four games, and this unit has been great.
Defensive line: A-
Bryce Davis and Tyshon Reed have made their presence felt, combining for four sacks and 7.5 tackles for a loss.
Linebackers: A
Luke Mergott has continued his productive play from last season, recording 13 total tackles and forcing a fumble. Nick Morris continues to come back from injury in the best way possible, with 23 total tackles and a tackle for a loss.
Secondary: B
After Illinois torched Duke's secondary in the first half of Week 2, Duke’s secondary has been quite good. The Blue Devils have allowed 198.0 passing yards per game, quite an improvement from last season.
Special teams: A
Cosme Salas is perfect on extra-point attempts and just missed one field goal out of five attempts. Duke’s punting has been even more impressive, ranking second in the FBS with an average of 51.38 yards per punt.
The fake punt executed by Nate Sheppard against Illinois changed the entire momentum of that game.
Coaching: A+
Diaz and his staff entered the season with a clear identity, and so far, they have stuck to just that.
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This article originally appeared on Duke Wire: Duke football position grades after four weeks of 2026 season
