ACC quarterback competition heats up 2026

Duke University opened its 2026 fall camp on August 5, with head coach Manny Diaz confirming that the starting quarterback role remains undecided. Transfer Walker Egat and redshirt freshman Dan Mahan split first‑team reps, each showing promise as the Blue Devils rebuild after the departure of former starter Darian Mensah and a wave of receivers, linemen and defensive backs. Duke’s season begins on September 5 against Tulane.

Clemson began camp on August 6, where veteran quarterback Christopher Vizzina and freshman Tait Reynolds continue to vie for the starting job. The Tigers also face depth challenges on the interior defensive line after three starters left for the NFL, and have dealt with injuries to transfer Kourtney Kelly and a cancer diagnosis for defensive back Hevin Brown‑Schuyler. Both programs, members of the ACC, are using the camp period to evaluate talent, address roster turnover, and set the tone for the upcoming season.

While other Power‑Five schools such as Alabama and Missouri held practices, the primary focus of this narrative remains the quarterback battles at Duke and Clemson as they shape the ACC landscape for 2026.