Darian Mensah battled legal threats and fan backlash after leaving the Duke Blue Devils. Now, he aims for a championship repeat with the Miami Hurricanes.
The Miami Hurricanes' acquisition of quarterback Darian Mensah came with controversy from the start. After it was initially reported of his plans to enter the transfer portal, the Duke Blue Devils filed a lawsuit in an attempt to retain him. The case never reached court and both sides agreed on a settlement.
Despite delivering the program its first ACC football championship since 1989, there was no formal farewell for Mensah. In an exclusive interview with On3, he recalled the difficulties of the situation.
"To be honest, they're [Blue Devils fans] are pretty hostile towards me," he said. "I'm obviously grateful for all the support I've received during the season. Duke's a special place. I've got nothing but good things to say about that place. Changed my life in the best way possible. Grateful."
The 21-year-old is coming off a spectacular season: completing 334 of 500 passes, 66.8 percent, for 3,973 yards and 34 touchdowns. He was the ACC championship MVP.
Mensah has an opportunity to reach new heights with the Hurricanes, who are coming off their first National Championship appearance since the 2002 season. They've had tremendous success with transfer portal quarterbacks over the last couple of years in Carson Beck and Cam Ward. He's arguably set up to be more successful than both, given all the weapons surrounding him.
However, the move not only affected Mensah but his mother as well.
"It's been pretty stressful, especially for my mom," he added. "I tried to stay off social media and let my team do all the work. I think they did a phenomenal job. My mom was more stressed than anything. So glad it's all done with and glad it worked out."
Now, everyone can move on and look forward to a new football season.
The Hurricanes released the 2026-27 season and should be the favorites to deliver the program its first-ever ACC championship, which would be a second for Mensah. He's set to face the Blue Devils at Hard Rock Stadium in week eight.
Also, he acknowledges the opportunity of increasing his NFL draft stock, similar to Ward. Beck is projected to be a late selection.
Mensah is viewed as an early favorite for next season's Heisman Trophy race, which could attract more NFL attention. The Hurricanes have a rich history with players taking their talents to the next level and achieving greatness.
It's a perfect match for both sides and the perfect timing.
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