Maalik Murphy prepares to leave Duke by entering transfer portal

In a significant move for both Maalik Murphy and the Duke football program, the starting quarterback has announced his intention to enter the NCAA transfer portal. This decision comes shortly after Murphy played a pivotal role in leading Duke to a 9-3 record, marking the team's first nine-win regular season since 2014. Murphy set a school record by throwing 26 touchdown passes and accumulated 2,933 passing yards during the season. With two years of eligibility remaining, he is expected to attract interest from various programs as he seeks a new opportunity. Murphy's decision to leave Duke comes at a time of reflection on his successful season. After transferring from the University of Texas, he solidified his status as a key player under first-year head coach Manny Diaz. Murphy's time at Duke included thrilling performances, such as throwing three touchdown passes in a challenging overtime loss to SMU and leading the team with three straight wins to close the season. His performances showcased his ability to thrive in high-pressure situations and made him one of the most accomplished players in the transfer portal. Additionally, Murphy's prior experience at Texas, where he earned the backup position and started two games in the 2023 season, adds to his value as a sought-after quarterback. His journey illustrates the competitive nature of college football and the importance of strategy and timing for athletes looking to maximize their potential. With Murphy stepping away before Duke’s upcoming Gator Bowl matchup against Ole Miss, it raises questions about how his departure will impact team dynamics and the preparations for the bowl game. As he transitions, the spotlight will undoubtedly be on where he chooses to continue his collegiate career and how his decision will affect the landscape of college football.