The Duke Blue Devils are entering the first full week of fall camp with Week 1 just under a month away. This is an important season for the program as it looks to successfully defend its ACC Championship triumph from last fall.As fall camp continues to ramp up, head coach Manny Diaz will attempt to accomplish the first three-year consecutive stretch of at least nine wins in program history. However, the roster has undergone significant changes on both sides of the ball, and depth has never been more important than this season. With that in mind, here are five players who could have key roles as depth pieces at their respective positions.CJ Campbell Jr., Running BackNov 1, 2024; Boca Raton, Florida, USA; Florida Atlantic Owls running back CJ Campbell Jr. (5) runs the ball getting past South Florida Bulls defensive back James Chenault (32) as Owls wide receiver Marlyn Johnson (11) follows along during the second half at FAU Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-Imagn Images | USA TODAY Sports via Reuters ConnectAs the Blue Devils' offense is expected to find its best production from the run game, the importance of having two quality running backs increases. We all know how good Nate Sheppard is, but what about CJ Campbell, the former Rutgers and Florida Atlantic transfer?Campbell has proven to be a productive running back, including his 1,300-plus scrimmage-yard season for the Owls two years ago. That kind of talent is worthy of having in the backfield when the run game becomes arguably the most important aspect of your offense.Bariate Kara, Defensive TackleSep 30, 2023; Durham, North Carolina, USA; Duke helmet of Duke Blue Devils cornerback Chandler Rivers (0) with its slogan during the second half against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish at Wallace Wade Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports | USA TODAY Sports via Reuters ConnectThe redshirt freshman saw little action in his first season of college football, but Kara can use his physical traits and freakish tools to be an impact rotational player early in the season. The Blue Devils are likely to have Preston Watson and former 4-star recruit Owen Wafle as their starters this season, and with how defensive coordinator Jonathan Patke has rotated his defensive front in past years, Kara could become a fun piece to flash his potential as a force for Duke.Nate Kurisky, Tight EndLouisville’s Nate Kurisky gets a first down against Kentucky’s Ty Bryant in the Governor’s Cup.
5 Duke Reserves Who Could Have Key Roles in 2026
The Blue Devils are looking for consistency this season, with their depth playing a crucial role in their success. Some of those players could have immediate im
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