Rutgers football fans can breathe a collective sigh of relief as wide receiver KJ Duff confirmed his return for the 2026 season, delivering a powerful message of loyalty amid potential team transitions.

During the school's men's basketball game against Ohio State, Duff announced he would remain with the Scarlet Knights, quelling speculation that arose after his roommate and fellow wide receiver Ian Strong recently entered the transfer portal.

Duff's commitment comes on the heels of a breakout 2025 season where he emerged as a standout performer, catching an impressive 60 passes for 1,084 yards and seven touchdowns. His remarkable performance included several highlight-reel catches, most notably an acrobatic reception late in the game against Penn State that showcased his exceptional athletic abilities.

The 6-foot-6, 225-pound receiver has been on a steady trajectory of improvement since his freshman year in 2024, when he initially caught 27 passes for 425 yards and one touchdown. His rapid development and consistent performance have positioned him as a potential high draft pick in future NFL drafts.

With Duff's return, alongside the retention of Antwan Raymond, the Scarlet Knights have successfully secured two of their primary offseason retention targets. The team's focus now shifts to rebuilding their defensive unit, aiming to create a more competitive and resilient squad for the upcoming season.

Duff's decision to stay signals a strong vote of confidence in the Rutgers football program and provides a beacon of hope for fans looking forward to seeing the dynamic receiver continue to develop his extraordinary talents on the field.