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Where every Duke player goes in The Athletic's NFL mock draft
TL;DR
Duke football players are expected to be drafted in the 2026 NFL Draft, including cornerback Chandler Rivers and offensive lineman Brian Parker. Rivers is projected to be picked 99th overall by the Pittsburgh Steelers, while Parker is anticipated to go 132nd overall to the New Orleans Saints.
Key points
- Duke football had a successful 2025 season with a 9-5 record.
- Chandler Rivers is projected to be drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers.
- Brian Parker is predicted to be selected by the New Orleans Saints.
Duke Blue DevilsChandler RiversBrian ParkerPittsburgh Steelers
Following an ACC title, bowl win and 9-5 season, Duke will have some former players hear their names be called during the 2026 NFL Draft, which takes place on April 23-25 in Pittsburgh, Pa.
In The Athleticâs latest mock draft for all seven rounds, three former Blue Devils, led by cornerback Chandler Rivers, are set to make the transition from college to the NFL after stellar careers with the Blue Devils.
Rivers, who recorded 59 total tackles (37 solo) with 3.5 tackles for a loss, eight passes broken up, two interceptions, one quarterback hurry and one forced fumble during the 2025 season, is predicted to go with the 99th overall pick to the Pittsburgh Steelers in the third round. Rivers followed up his First Team All-ACC honors in 2024 with Second Team All-ACC in 2025.
Offensive line stalwart Brian Parker is predicted to be the next former Duke player to go, with him selected with the 132nd overall pick (4th round) by the New Orleans Saints.
Finally, Wesley Williams, fresh off a season in which he produced 44 total tackles, 16 quarterback hurries, nine tackles for a loss, two sacks, one pass broken up and one blocked kick, is set to go to the Carolina Panthers in the fifth round with the 158th pick.
This article originally appeared on Duke Wire: Where every Duke player goes in The Athletic's NFL mock draft
Q&A
Which Duke players are projected to be drafted in the 2026 NFL Draft?
Chandler Rivers and Brian Parker are the Duke players projected to be drafted in 2026.
What are Chandler Rivers' stats from the 2025 season?
Chandler Rivers recorded 59 total tackles, 3.5 tackles for a loss, two interceptions, and one forced fumble during the 2025 season.
What round and pick are Chandler Rivers and Brian Parker expected to be drafted?
Chandler Rivers is projected to be drafted 99th overall in the third round, while Brian Parker is expected to go 132nd overall in the fourth round.
