The Oregon Ducks signed former Tulane Green Wave running back Makhi Hughes through the transfer portal earlier this month. Hughes was considered one of the best running backs available in the portal this offseason.
Oregon’s New Workhorse: Former Teammates Praise RB Makhi Hughes
Hughes stated at the end of Tulane’s season that he would enter the transfer portal before committing to the Ducks. Hughes will be an essential aspect of the Oregon RB room in 2025.
The former Tulane running back has a great track record and high standards from his former teammates. Hughes gained 2,779 running yards and 22 touchdowns over his two seasons at Tulane, establishing himself as an explosive player on the field.
Hughes’ past colleagues have been candid about his skills. Former defensive back Johnathan Edwards remarked at the Senior Bowl:
“He’s a workhorse, so you can depend on him first down, second down, and third down. He came to work every day, the same guy on Day 1 as Day 365. I got a lot of respect for Makhi, and he’s going to do great things at Oregon.”
“He ain’t no little back,” former Tulane safety Caleb Ransaw added. “He’s more so like a versatile back. He can run and he worked on his long speed; he’s a long runner as well. He’s powerful, he can do some juke moves as well.
“Some people they’re more power backs and there’s receiving backs and just running backs. He can do it all.”
Hughes, who stands 5-foot-11 and weighs 210 pounds, is anticipated to have an early impact in Oregon’s backfield, particularly after standout running back Jordan James left for the 2025 NFL Draft. His versatility and track record make him a key asset to the Ducks’ offense.
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Other Oregon running backs that could see playing time in 2025 include Jayden Limar, Da’Jaun Riggs, and Jay Harris. The Ducks also signed four-star running back Jordon Davison in the 2025 class, who could receive some action as well.
As the Ducks are ready for the upcoming season, Hughes joins their offensive lineup, offering a dynamic and strong running game that fans look forward to witnessing.
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