Breaking: The NFL spotlight is already heating up around Durham. Nine Duke Blue Devils have officially earned a spot on the 2025 East-West Shrine Bowl Watch List, solidifying the program’s status as one of college football’s top talent factories.
Here’s Who’s Turning Heads:
Vincent Anthony Jr., a relentless senior defensive end, is back for his fourth year with 36 career games and a reputation for terrorizing QBs. With 70 total tackles, 16.0 TFL, and 19 QB pressures, he’s one of the ACC’s most consistent disruptors. His highlight? A career-high 6 tackles vs. Elon in the 2024 opener.
Matt Craycraft and Justin Pickett, two anchors of Duke’s elite offensive line, return after helping the unit rank 2nd in the ACC and Top 10 nationally in sacks allowed. Craycraft’s 76.1 pass block grade (PFF) and Pickett’s experience make this duo one of the most underrated forces up front.
Darian Mensah, the new QB transfer from Tulane, is no sleeper. With over 2,700 passing yards, 22 TDs, and a top-10 national efficiency rating, he’s ready to light up the ACC in 2025.
Terry Moore, a returning All-American safety, is a tackling machine with 116 stops, 4 INTs, and elite instincts. Named one of the Top 10 returning safeties by PFF, Moore is already a fan favorite — and a scout’s dream.
Brian Parker II might be the best lineman you haven’t heard about — yet. The right tackle was #1 in the ACC in pass blocking and didn’t allow a sack on 515 snaps last season. He’s the #9 returning OT nationally per PFF.
Chandler Rivers, a lockdown corner with 3 INTs, 8 PBUs, and a freakish 90.7 defense grade (2nd nationally among CBs), is set to lock down WR1s all season.
Caleb Weaver, a seasoned post-baccalaureate safety, transferred from Sam Houston and brought the fire with 167 tackles and 6 INTs in 34 games. A First Team All-CUSA selection, he’s already drawing eyes in Durham.
Wesley Williams, an explosive DE with 20 TFL, 9 sacks, and 3 blocked kicks, was one of only two ACC players with 6.5+ TFL in each of the past two years. He’s a nightmare off the edge.
Why This Matters:
The East-West Shrine Bowl, the nation’s oldest college all-star game, serves as a massive showcase for NFL Draft hopefuls. With these nine names on the list, Duke isn’t just showing up — they’re planning to take over.
