Duke football seeks secondary improvement with new transfers

Duke football is focusing on substantial upgrades in its secondary, one of the nation’s weakest units last season, as the team prepares for its opener against Tulane next week. Head coach Manny Diaz highlighted the urgency to fill voids left by key departures, including cornerback Chandler Rivers, who is entering the 2026 NFL Draft. In response, the Blue Devils have added transfers such as Che Ojarikre from Stanford and Patrick Smith-Young from North Texas, alongside returners like Andrew Pellicciotta and Kimari Robinson. Diaz emphasized the open competition for starting positions, indicating that the team has depth and talent but is yet to finalize its lineup as they continue preparations in fall camp.

• 6:45 PMYahoo Sports — Duke football position preview: Secondary