Duke’s Terry Moore and Chandler Rivers Honored With Selection To Prestigious 2026 Panini Senior Bowl Watch List Recognition

In the world of college football, recognition often serves as both a reward for past performance and a projection of future potential. For Duke football, two of its defensive standouts—graduate safety Terry Moore and senior cornerback Chandler Rivers—have earned one of the most significant acknowledgments of their collegiate careers. Both Blue Devils have been named to the 2026 Panini Senior Bowl Watch List, an announcement that underscores their importance not only to Duke’s program but also to the broader landscape of college football. The honor places them firmly on the radar of NFL scouts and executives while highlighting the development of Duke’s program into one capable of producing nationally respected defensive talent.

The Panini Senior Bowl, held annually in Mobile, Alabama, has long stood as a premier postseason showcase for top college seniors and NFL Draft prospects. Being named to its watch list is an early but meaningful indicator that a player has attracted the attention of evaluators. For Moore and Rivers, the selection is both a validation of their hard work and a challenge to continue elevating their performances in the coming season. Few opportunities carry as much weight in signaling a player’s professional potential, and the fact that two Duke defenders appear on the list reflects how much the program has grown in terms of player development and national recognition.

Terry Moore’s inclusion comes after a steady climb throughout his time in Durham. A graduate safety, Moore has consistently been known for his versatility, leadership, and football IQ. He has shown a knack for diagnosing plays before they develop, providing Duke’s defense with a reliable presence in the secondary. His ability to step up in both run support and coverage has made him an indispensable figure for the Blue Devils. Over the years, Moore has grown into a leader on and off the field, someone younger players turn to for guidance. Now, as he takes on his graduate season, his selection to the Senior Bowl Watch List symbolizes the culmination of years of commitment, persistence, and steady improvement. It also signals to NFL teams that Moore is the kind of player who can transition seamlessly to the next level thanks to his adaptability, intelligence, and work ethic.

Chandler Rivers, meanwhile, has been one of Duke’s most dynamic defensive players since his arrival. Now a senior cornerback, Rivers has built a reputation for being a lockdown defender, capable of matching up with some of the ACC’s most talented receivers. His quick footwork, strong instincts, and ability to break on the ball have made him a constant threat in coverage. Rivers has also demonstrated a willingness to contribute against the run, showing the physicality required to be a complete corner. NFL scouts value corners who can perform in multiple defensive schemes, and Rivers’ skill set places him in that category. His recognition on the Senior Bowl Watch List only cements his reputation as one of the top defensive backs in college football heading into the 2025 season.

The inclusion of both Moore and Rivers speaks volumes about Duke’s defensive unit. Traditionally viewed as a basketball powerhouse, Duke football has worked diligently over the past decade to establish itself as a force on the gridiron. The recognition of two of its defensive backs for one of college football’s most prestigious honors illustrates just how far the program has come. Under strong coaching and with players like Moore and Rivers leading the way, the Blue Devils are proving they can compete not only in the ACC but also on the national stage in terms of producing NFL-caliber talent.

For Moore and Rivers, the challenge now lies in living up to the recognition. Being on the Senior Bowl Watch List is not the end goal; rather, it is the beginning of an even greater opportunity. The upcoming season will serve as an audition not only for Duke’s success but also for their individual draft stock. Consistency will be key, as scouts will be monitoring every game, every snap, and every decision. For Moore, maintaining his reputation as a leader and dependable safety will be vital, while Rivers will look to continue shutting down opposing receivers and proving he belongs among the elite cornerbacks in the nation.

The Senior Bowl itself has a long history of showcasing players who went on to become NFL stars. From Hall of Famers to current league standouts, the event provides a stage where college players can demonstrate their abilities in front of every NFL team. Moore and Rivers now have a direct path to potentially participating in that spotlight should their seasons live up to expectations. The opportunity to practice against top competition, to be coached by NFL staffs, and to perform in a game watched closely by decision-makers could significantly boost their draft stock.

What makes their recognition particularly important is the timing. The NFL is always searching for versatile defensive backs who can thrive in today’s pass-heavy game. Safeties who can cover multiple positions and corners who can excel in man-to-man matchups are among the most coveted assets in professional football. Moore and Rivers fit those molds. For Duke fans, seeing their names on the Senior Bowl Watch List is a source of pride, signaling that the program continues to produce athletes capable of thriving at the highest level.

There is also a broader narrative at play here. College football is filled with powerhouse programs that dominate headlines, but the story of Moore and Rivers illustrates how talent can emerge from anywhere. Duke may not have the same national reputation in football as schools like Alabama, Ohio State, or Georgia, but the presence of its players on such prestigious watch lists proves that quality, discipline, and development can lead to national recognition. For recruits considering Duke in the future, Moore and Rivers stand as examples of what can be achieved within the program.

The journey ahead will not be easy. The ACC is home to talented offenses and skill players who will test Moore and Rivers every week. But for players aiming for NFL futures, that competition is exactly what they need to prepare for the next level. Each interception, each pass defended, and each leadership moment will contribute to their overall body of work. As the season unfolds, both will carry the weight of expectations—not just for themselves, but for Duke football as a whole.

Their selection also adds excitement for Duke fans entering the 2025 season. Knowing that two of their defensive stars are on the national radar provides additional anticipation for what could be a memorable year. Fans will have the opportunity to witness not only the growth of the team but also the progression of players with NFL aspirations. Every big play made by Moore or Rivers will now carry added significance, as it strengthens their case for the Senior Bowl and ultimately the NFL Draft.

The road from watch list to the Senior Bowl game is one paved with hard work, perseverance, and performance. Moore and Rivers have already proven that they belong in the conversation, but now comes the most critical stage. For Duke football, their recognition represents a milestone, another step forward in the program’s mission to gain respect nationally. For the players themselves, it is a chance to leave behind a legacy in Durham while preparing to embark on careers at the professional level.

In the end, the selection of Terry Moore and Chandler Rivers to the 2026 Panini Senior Bowl Watch List is a testament to their talent, leadership, and determination. It highlights their growth within Duke’s program, places them firmly on the NFL radar, and sets the stage for what promises to be an exciting season ahead. Whether it’s Moore directing traffic in the secondary or Rivers locking down an opposing wideout, their performances this year will be watched with even greater intensity. For two defenders who have given their all to Duke football, this recognition is richly deserved—and it may only be the beginning of a journey that leads to the NFL.