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Forsyth Today
By the People, for the People
Louisville Transfer Duke Watson Seeks Fresh Start at UCF
The dynamic running back hopes to recapture his breakout freshman form with the Knights.
Apr. 7, 2026 at 9:05am
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Duke Watson's dynamic running style will be a key focus as he looks to revive his college career at UCF.Forsyth TodayDuke Watson, a former Louisville running back, has transferred to UCF in search of a fresh start after battling injuries during his sophomore season. Watson was a standout as a freshman in 2024, leading the nation in yards per carry, and is now looking to replicate that success with the Knights.
Why it matters
UCF is looking to reload its backfield after the departures of Myles Montgomery and Jaden Nixon, and Watson's addition provides the team with an experienced and talented option to compete for the starting job. Watson's ability to make big plays and his strong relationship with UCF's coaching staff make him an intriguing transfer addition for the Knights.
The details
Watson averaged 8.9 yards per carry and scored five touchdowns as a freshman at Louisville in 2024. However, he battled ankle injuries throughout his sophomore season, seeing his production dip significantly. Now at UCF, Watson is eager to recapture the form that made him one of the most explosive young running backs in the country. He'll compete with several other talented backs, including Landen Chambers, Taevion Swint, and Agyeman Addae, for the starting job.
- Watson entered the transfer portal in December 2025.
- Watson signed with UCF on January 10, 2026.
The players
Duke Watson
A former Louisville running back who is now transferring to UCF in search of a fresh start after a injury-plagued sophomore season.
Trent Mossbrucker
The UCF general manager who previously recruited Watson while serving as Louisville's recruiting coordinator.
Scott Frost
The head coach of the UCF football team.
Jimmy Beal
The running backs coach at UCF.
Alonza Barnett III
The starting quarterback for UCF, who Watson is excited to play with.
What they’re saying
“I know what he can do talent-wise. At the end of the day, and (head coach Scott Frost) hit on this as well, we brought in high-character players who have talent, who have played snaps. I think that was a big part of our process when we were bringing kids in.”
— Trent Mossbrucker, UCF General Manager
“I just feel like I'm starting all over again, but I know what I'm doing. The second time is the best time. This year, being more of a vet, it's going to definitely be a great year.”
— Duke Watson
“Alonza's great, very smart. We have a great relationship. Getting to see him in full action, I already know what he's about and what's his game.”
— Duke Watson
What’s next
Watson will compete for the starting running back job during UCF's spring practices and preseason camp, with the goal of reclaiming the form that made him one of the nation's most productive freshmen in 2024.
The takeaway
Duke Watson's transfer to UCF provides the Knights with an experienced and talented running back option as they look to rebuild their backfield. If Watson can stay healthy and regain his freshman form, he could be a key piece for UCF's offense in 2026.
