Duke's Projected Starters for Season Opener After Fall Camp
Duke has wrapped up its fall camp and is set to open the season against Tulane on Sept. 5. The projected starters include transfer quarterback Walker Eget, who threw for over 5,000 yards in two seasons at San Jose State, and running back Nate Sheppard, who emerged as the lead back last year. Wide receiver Javen Nicholas is expected to be a deep threat in the slot.
Duke's offense will feature several newcomers, with Walker Eget arriving from San Jose State after throwing for more than 5,000 yards and 30 touchdowns across two starting seasons. He replaces Darian Mensah, who was considered among the ACC's top quarterbacks in 2025. Nate Sheppard, a true sophomore, secured the lead running back role midway through last season and is expected to carry the ground game.
The receiving corps blends transfers with youth. Jared Richardson, a Penn transfer with nearly 200 career receptions and over 2,500 yards, is slated for the X position. Javen Nicholas, who posted 60 catches and five scores for a 1-11 Charlotte squad, brings deep-threat potential to the slot. Redshirt freshman Jaivon Solomon impressed during camp scrimmages, though competition remains open.
This lineup projection could shape Duke's early-season trajectory, as the Sept. 5 opener against Tulane will test how quickly transfers and younger players mesh. Fans and analysts may gauge whether the new quarterback and receiver combinations can sustain the program's recent competitiveness. The outcome could influence recruiting momentum and ticket interest, though much depends on on-field execution rather than preseason projections.