The NFL Draft has come and gone for the Duke Blue Devils, as they move forward to the 2026 season following the losses of some of their best players, who have been key to the program's rebirth under head coach Manny Diaz. This is an important season for Duke after big losses from the draft and transfer portal. Recouping won't be easy, but there are three established talents on the roster who could emerge as ones who could define the upcoming 2026 season as the Blue Devils look to defend their ACC Championship title. Let's look at who those three players are. Nate Sheppard, Running Back Dec 6, 2025; Charlotte, NC, USA; Duke Blue Devils running back Nate Sheppard (20) celebrates a touchdown in the second quarter against the Virginia Cavaliers during the 2025 ACC Championship game at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images | Bob Donnan-Imagn Images As a true freshman, Sheppard stormed onto the scene with an incredible rookie season, rushing for 1,132 yards and 11 touchdowns.…