Makhi Hughes: A Star Running Back on the Move
In a move that has sent ripples through the college football community, Makhi Hughes, the standout running back from Tulane, has entered the NCAA transfer portal. This news, confirmed by sources to ESPN, marks a significant shift in the landscape of college football talent.
Hughes has been nothing short of spectacular during his tenure with the Green Wave. Over the past two seasons, he has established himself as one of the most productive running backs in college football. His efforts have not gone unnoticed, as he has earned first-team All-American Athletic Conference honors in consecutive seasons. With two more seasons of eligibility remaining, Hughes is poised to be one of the most sought-after players in the transfer portal, especially as the Dec. 28 deadline for the winter transfer window approaches.
Standing at 5-foot-11 and weighing 210 pounds, Hughes has amassed an impressive 3,022 yards from scrimmage since 2023. This season alone, he ranks ninth among FBS running backs with 1,401 rushing yards and has scored 17 total touchdowns. His contributions were pivotal for a Tulane team that finished with a 9-5 record and competed for an AAC conference title.
What makes Hughes even more intriguing is the fact that all eight running backs currently ahead of him on the FBS rushing leaderboard are entering the NFL Draft after this season. This positions Hughes as arguably the top returning back in the country for 2025, a prospect that will undoubtedly attract significant attention from programs across the nation.
Hughes’ journey to prominence began with a breakout season as a redshirt freshman in 2023. During that year, he rushed for 1,378 yards and seven touchdowns, earning Freshman All-America recognition. The Birmingham, Alabama native has consistently delivered, producing 100 or more yards from scrimmage in 14 games over the past two seasons.
Adding another layer to this story is Hughes’ younger brother, Na’eem Offord. Offord was the No. 4 overall recruit in the ESPN 300 for 2025 and recently signed with the Oregon Ducks. This family connection adds an interesting dynamic to Hughes’ transfer decision, as it could influence his choice of destination.
Under the guidance of first-year coach Jon Sumrall, Tulane has been a formidable force, reaching the AAC championship game for the third consecutive season. However, the team has faced challenges, losing 12 scholarship players to the transfer portal this month alone. Among those departing is former Tulane starting quarterback Darian Mensah, who was ranked as the No. 2 player in ESPN’s transfer rankings and has signed with the Duke Blue Devils.
As the college football world watches closely, the question on everyone’s mind is: where will Makhi Hughes land next? His decision will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the program he chooses to join, and fans are eagerly awaiting the next chapter in his already impressive career.
- Makhi Hughes enters the NCAA transfer portal.
- Ranked ninth among FBS running backs with 1,401 rushing yards this season.
- All eight running backs ahead of him are entering the NFL Draft.
- Brother Na’eem Offord signed with Oregon.
- Tulane has lost 12 scholarship players to the transfer portal this month.
Stay tuned as this story develops, and keep an eye on the transfer portal for updates on Hughes’ next move. His talent and potential make him a game-changer for any team lucky enough to secure his commitment.
Originally Written by: Max Olson
