DURHAM, N.C. – Duke redshirt sophomore quarterback Darian Mensah was named to the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award Top 25 list. Also named to the preseason watch list for the award, Mensah made the narrowed list as one of the top 25 signal callers this season.Â
In his first season at Duke, Mensah has started all six games and completed 143-of-205 passes for 1,838 yards and 15 touchdowns against just two interceptions. The San Luis Obispo, Calif., product stands second nationally in total passing yards, third in passing yards per game (306.3), fourth in passing touchdowns and 10th in completions per game (23.83).
Mensah has helped Duke to a 3-0 start in ACC play as he has the offense clicking with a robust 42.7 points per league game. Duke leads all Power Four schools in points per conference contest. Mensah's efforts have guided the Blue Devils to the national lead in plays of 20 or more yards with 39 and the squad stands second nationally in plays of 30 or more yards with 21.Â
The Golden Arm Award, presented annually to the top upperclassmen quarterback by the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Educational Foundation, encapsulates all that is positive in college sports. The award acknowledges performance on the field for sure, but it goes beyond completion percentage and touchdown strikes. The award values character, citizenship, integrity and those who honor the game.
The 2025 Golden Arm Award Top 25 quarterbacks have distinguished themselves as the nation's elite leaders under center, combining high-level production with character and resilience. From clutch performances in marquee matchups to steady leadership in the locker room, this group exemplifies the values of the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award—excellence on the field, integrity off it, and the ability to inspire those around them.
As the season progresses, this Top 25 list will be further narrowed to semifinalists and finalists, before one is awarded the Golden Arm Award in December at the annual ceremony at the Four Seasons Hotel in Johnny Unitas' hometown of Baltimore. The event will honor leadership, legacy and the best in college football.
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