Oregon running back Makhi Hughes has decided to redshirt the 2025 season after appearing in four games. That move preserves a year of eligibility and opens the door for another transfer once the portal reopens in 2026. Given Hughes’ track record at Tulane, back-to-back 1,300-yard seasons and First-Team All-AAC honors, he’ll have no shortage of suitors if he decides to move on from Eugene.
Auburn Football Could Be the Top Transfer Destination for Makhi Hughes
Auburn looks like the most natural landing spot in 2026. Hughes is a Birmingham native, so the connection to home is obvious. The Tigers will also have a major opening in the backfield with senior Damari Alston set to leave after this season.
While Jeremiah Cobb and other younger backs will still be in the mix, Hughes’ experience and production level would give him a clear path to a heavy workload. Auburn media and fans have already speculated about the school’s interest when Hughes was first in the portal, so the fit has been there for a while.
Why LSU Could Make Sense for Makhi Hughes in 2026
LSU’s backfield has rotated heavily in recent years, and prized recruit Caden Durham hasn’t yet lived up to expectations.
By 2026, the Tigers could be looking for a reliable, proven back to take pressure off the quarterback and stabilize the run game. Hughes fits that bill. He’s shown he can handle 20+ carries a game and would bring a physical element LSU fans have been craving since their recent committees failed to impress. If Durham doesn’t turn the corner, Hughes could realistically slide into that RB1 role in Baton Rouge.
Could Makhi Hughes Stay at Oregon?
While Oregon running back Makhi Hughes has decided to sit out the rest of this year and redshirt, he hasn’t said anything to the Ducks *as of yet* about planning on entering the transfer portal, sources tell @CBSSports.
Oregon would like to keep Hughes, who ran for 2,779 yards… pic.twitter.com/czIf8SJWsC
— Matt Zenitz (@mzenitz) October 1, 2025
There’s still a path for Hughes to remain in Eugene. Oregon has said it would like to keep him, and with veteran backs like Noah Whittington moving on after this year, the depth chart could open up.
If Hughes believes he can carve out a role in 2026, staying put would give him stability in a high-profile program and a chance to re-establish himself without another move. However, quitting on a team that is among the favorites to win a title according to top sportsbooks, could leave a black mark next to his name.
Other Programs That Could Pursue Makhi Hughes
If Hughes doesn’t land at Auburn or LSU, there are still realistic alternatives. Louisville could be in the market for a feature back, and Memphis would make sense as a regional AAC power where he’d be the focal point. Mississippi State and even a return to Tulane can’t be ruled out either, depending on roster needs and staff interest.
Makhi Hughes Transfer Projection
Hughes’ redshirt this year looks like a strategic pause, not the end of the line. He’s protecting eligibility and waiting for the right spot. Auburn stands out as the favorite, while LSU looms as a serious contender if their younger backs don’t develop. Either way, Hughes is likely to be one of the more sought-after portal running backs in 2026 if he decides to leave the Ducks.
