The Oregon Ducks football program has secured a significant addition with the commitment of Tulane transfer running back Makhi Hughes. He is a two-time 1,300-yard rusher and first-team All-American Athletic Conference honoree.
Hughes, the older brother of Oregon five-star CB signee Na’eem Offord, brings added talent to the Ducks' roster. Offord shared his excitement on Instagram, hinting at future success, saying:
"Got another one coming 👀."
Makhi Hughes' transfer, announced on Tuesday, follows a standout season where the 5-foot-11, 210-pound redshirt sophomore ranked ninth among FBS running backs with 1,401 rushing yards and 17 total touchdowns.
Hughes’ decision to join Oregon wasn’t merely a stroke of luck for the Ducks. The connection between Hughes and his younger brother, Oregon five-star cornerback signee Na’eem Offord, proved pivotal.
Steve Wiltfong of the On3 Recruits podcast emphasized this familial bond, saying,
“Makhi Hughes was out in Eugene over the weekend helping his little brother five-star cornerback Na’eem Offord.”
Hughes joins Oregon at a crucial time. Following the departure of leading rusher Jordan James to the NFL draft, Hughes fills a significant void. James, who tallied 1,495 scrimmage yards and 15 touchdowns this season, leaves big shoes to fill.
Oregon, coming off a Big Ten championship season and a College Football Playoff semifinal appearance, continues to build momentum under coach Dan Lanning.
Oregon Ducks see roster changes as Makhi Hughes joins amid key departures
The Oregon Ducks are gearing up for a reshaped roster in 2025, with notable gains and losses. Star running back Jordan James and All-Big Ten defensive tackle Derrick Harmon have declared for the NFL draft.
However, the Ducks received good news as wide receiver Evan Stewart announced his return for his senior year. A former Texas A&M transfer, Stewart recorded 48 receptions for 613 yards and five touchdowns in 2024.
Oregon also bolstered its wide receiver depth with Florida State transfer Malik Benson. Meanwhile, running back Makhi Hughes, who totaled 3,022 yards from scrimmage since 2023, joins the Ducks’ offense after earning AAC Rookie of the Year and freshman All-America honors in 2023.
Hughes will team up with his younger brother, Na’eem Offord, Oregon’s five-star cornerback signee and No. 4 overall recruit in the 2025 ESPN 300, who flipped his commitment from Ohio State in December.
The Tulane Green Wave, Hughes’ former team, faces significant roster turnover. Quarterback Darian Mensah transferred to Duke, while tight end Alex Bauman entered the portal.
Tulane’s 9-5 season, capped by an AAC championship game loss to Army West Point and a Gasparilla Bowl defeat, marked a transitional year under first-year coach Jon Sumrall.