Story by
Duke Wire
Duke football position previews: Defensive line
- Story byDuke Wire
- Duke football position previews: Defensive line
Change is a central theme for Duke football in 2026. After losing four starters from last year's ACC championship team , the Blue Devils ' defense hopes to reload with a new-look defensive line.
With returning rotation players, transfer additions and incoming freshmen all competing for roles, there will be plenty of opportunities to make an impact. But who will get the first crack at the starting lineup?
Advertisement
Here's a look at Duke 's projected starters and this year's defensive line rotation.
Projected starters:
Bryce Davis (DE)
Plenty of excitement surrounds Bryce Davis, who is aiming for a breakout sophomore season after tallying 10 tackles and a pass deflection in 12 games as a true freshman. The highest-rated recruit in program history , Davis possesses the athleticism, explosiveness and power to become an impact defender on the edge. Last season his focus was on his development; this season that focus will shift to producing for the defense.
Owen Wafle (DT)
Former Michigan and Penn State defensive tackle Owen Wafle is expected to man one of the starting interior spots after transferring to Duke at the beginning of the year. A former four-star recruit, Wafle has yet to find his place at the collegiate level, with only nine games and four tackles under his belt, but he should have an opportunity to establish himself in a starting role with the Blue Devils.
Advertisement
Preston Watson (DT)
Preston Watson is entering his third year at Duke after seeing the field in all 27 games between his freshman and sophomore seasons. In that time, Watson racked up 21 combined tackles, four for loss, and is projected to start opposite Wafle on the interior line, giving him an opportunity to build on his sophomore year.
Tyshon Reed (DE)
Like Watson, Tyshon Reed is entering his third season with the Blue Devils after appearing in all 27 games over the last two years, finishing last season with 22 combined tackles. Together, Reed and Watson will look to provide some continuity for Manny Diaz's defense .
Advertisement
Projected backups
Returning to the Blue Devils are O'Connor, Anderson, Smith, Turner and Onuoha, who all saw time with the Blue Devils last season. Each saw action in at least 13 games for Duke last season and should prove reliable when called on, while Dartmouth transfer Dakota Quiñonez can push for playing time with his new team.
Incoming freshmen Cain, Cannon and Umeh will be green to start, but should have an opportunity to develop into future contributors along Duke's defensive line.
Contact/Follow us @DukeWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Duke news, notes and opinions. Follow Zach on X: @CiavoNBA
This article originally appeared on Duke Wire: Duke football position previews: Defensive line
