Darian Mensah becomes highest-paid college football player in NIL era

Former Duke quarterback Darian Mensah has signed a new NIL deal worth over $6 million, making him the highest-paid college football player. Mensah, who transferred to Miami after entering the portal, had a legal dispute with Duke that ended with a settlement. This significant increase from his previous $4 million deal at Duke highlights the financial of college football amid the NIL era. Duke begins their 2026 season on September 5 against Tulane, where they will debut their new starting quarterback, Walker Eget.

• 3:47 AMYahoo Sports — Former Duke Player Sets New NIL Record