Makhi Hughes Requests Redshirt Season at Oregon

Oregon Ducks running back Makhi Hughes has requested to redshirt for the remainder of the 2025 season, a decision confirmed by head coach Dan Lanning. This move comes after Hughes, who transferred from Tulane, experienced limited playing time, appearing in only four games and recording 17 carries for 70 yards without scoring a touchdown. The Ducks have a deep running back roster, which has relegated Hughes to a lower position on the depth chart.

Oregon’s RB Hughes Opts for Redshirt After Limited PlaytimeOregon running back to redshirt remainder of 2025 season, per Dan LanningOregon RB Hughes set to redshirt following limited field timeElite transfer pickup for Oregon requests redshirt after minimal playing timeEugene Register-GuardESPNDan Lanning announces Oregon RB Makhi Hughes will redshirtOregonian247Sports

Hughes joined Oregon as a highly touted transfer, ranked as the No. 1 running back and No. 6 overall player in ESPN's transfer rankings. He had an impressive career at Tulane, rushing for 1,401 yards and 17 touchdowns in the 2024 season, earning first-team honors in the American Athletic Conference for two consecutive years. However, after missing the 2022 season due to injury, Hughes has struggled to find his footing in Oregon's competitive running back lineup.

Oregon RB Hughes set to redshirt following limited field timeESPNOregon’s RB Hughes Opts for Redshirt After Limited PlaytimeOregon running back to redshirt remainder of 2025 season, per Dan LanningDan Lanning announces Oregon RB Makhi Hughes will redshirt247SportsOregonianEugene Register-GuardElite transfer pickup for Oregon requests redshirt after minimal playing time

Oregon's running back corps has thrived this season, led by freshman Dierre Hill Jr., who has emerged as a standout with 270 yards on 26 carries and a team-high seven rushing touchdowns. Other contributors include junior Jayden Limar and senior Noah Whittington, both of whom have consistently performed, further limiting Hughes' opportunities on the field. The Ducks currently boast a top-15 rushing attack nationally, demonstrating the effectiveness of their depth.

ESPN

Dan Lanning stated, “He’s asked for a redshirt, and we’ve honored that opportunity for him,” emphasizing the team's support for Hughes' decision. While Hughes has not indicated plans to transfer again, the redshirt allows him to preserve two years of eligibility, providing flexibility for his future in college football.

Elite transfer pickup for Oregon requests redshirt after minimal playing time

Despite the support from the coaching staff, some analysts have expressed disappointment regarding Hughes' inability to integrate into the Ducks' offensive scheme. The expectation was that Hughes would significantly contribute to the team's rushing game, given his prior success at Tulane. Critics argue that the depth of talent in Oregon's running back room has overshadowed his potential.

Oregon’s RB Hughes Opts for Redshirt After Limited Playtime

As Hughes embarks on his redshirt season, he retains the option to transfer again, should he choose to explore other opportunities. The Ducks are set to face No. 8 Indiana on October 11, where they will continue to rely on their current running back lineup without Hughes.

Dan Lanning announces Oregon RB Makhi Hughes will redshirt

• “He's asked for a redshirt and we honored that opportunity for him,” — Dan Lanning, Head Coach, Oregon Ducks

Eugene Register-Guard

• “Makhi’s attitude day in and day out, so mature.” — Ra’Shaad Samples, Running Backs Coach, Oregon Ducks

Oregonian

This decision marks a pivotal moment in Hughes' collegiate career, as he navigates the challenges of playing time and team dynamics at Oregon.

Oregon RB Hughes set to redshirt following limited field time