What key positions are the Oregon Ducks looking to fill as they transition from the 2024 season to 2025? How did Jordan James perform during his time as Oregon’s leading running back? Who is expected to take over the starting running back role for the Ducks in 2025? What accolades has Makhi Hughes achieved during his college career, and how does he compare to previous players in the Oregon running back position?
The Oregon Ducks roster is undergoing a significant transition from 2024 to 2025, and the spring season, which is in full swing, is the time for programs across the country to see how their pieces will fit together come September. Dan Lanning and the Ducks are faced with replacing several key positions, including the running back spot. Last season, the Ducks’ run game was led by junior Jordan James, who averaged 5.7 yards per carry in three seasons with the Ducks. 2024 was James’ sole season as Oregon’s top back, and he finished the year with 1,267 rushing yards and 15 TDs before declaring for the NFL Draft.
After losing James, the Ducks went to the transfer portal and picked up Makhi Hughes, who excelled in two seasons at Tulane and is Oregon’s projected starter for 2025. Veteran Oregon RB Noah Whittington, who has given Oregon’s run game elite support since 2022, will be rushing behind Hughes this fall, and after practice on Thursday, Whittington had high praise for the Ducks’ newest back.
"I think he brings a sense of violence," Whittington said of Hughes. "There are a lot of people in our room, where it’s the same thing. He doesn’t take contact; he enforces it. It’s the same thing within his running style. He’s a big body, he’s fast. I don’t think anybody is really gonna want to tackle him."
In 28 games over those two seasons with the Green Wave, Hughes rushed for 2,779 yards and 22 TD, averaging 5.3 YPC. His 1,378 yards as a freshman in 2023 led the AAC, and in 2024, he beat his previous best, rushing for 1,401 yards.
At 5 feet 10 inches and 190 pounds coming out of high school, Hughes was rated as a 3-star recruit by 247Sports, and he wasn’t ranked as a top 100 RB in the class of 2022. Three years later, he’s become a Freshman All-American, All-AAC First Team player, AAC Rookie of the Year, and a Doak Walker Semifinalist.
Like Whittington said, "He brings a sense of violence."
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Oregon Ducks RB Noah Whittington Praises Tulane Transfer Makhi Hughes: A New Era of Talent in Eugene
In the competitive landscape of college football, team dynamics and player synergies often play crucial roles in shaping successful seasons. When it comes to the Oregon Ducks, a program renowned for its explosive offense and dynamic playmakers, recent additions to the roster have fans buzzing with excitement. Among those additions is Makhi Hughes, a transfer running back from Tulane, who has already made a significant impression on his new teammates. One of the most notable endorsements comes from fellow running back Noah Whittington, who is primed for a standout season of his own.
The Rising Star: Makhi Hughes
Makhi Hughes arrived in Eugene with a reputation for his electrifying speed, excellent vision, and ability to evade tackles. At Tulane, he showcased his talents as a versatile running back and a reliable option in the passing game, making him an attractive transfer for the Ducks. Oregon’s potent offense relies on its running backs not only to carry the ball but to create mismatches in the passing game, and Hughes possesses the skill set to excel in both areas.
Hughes’s development under the mentorship of the Ducks’ coaching staff has already impressed observers. His work ethic and eagerness to learn have made him a quick fit in the fast-paced system that Oregon is known for.
Praise from a Talented Teammate
Noah Whittington, who made waves during last season with his electrifying runs and capacity to contribute in crucial moments, has taken notice of Hughes’s potential. Whittington, himself a standout at Oregon, has a deep understanding of what it takes to thrive in a high-pressure environment. When discussing Hughes, Whittington expressed his confidence in the Tulane transfer: “Makhi is an incredible talent. He has the speed and agility that can change the game’s course in an instant. More than that, he has a great attitude and work ethic. His willingness to learn and adapt has been impressive.”
Whittington’s endorsement carries weight, as he is not just another player filling a roster spot; he has earned his place through hard work and performance on the field. His experiences put him in a position to recognize potential when he sees it, and his praise for Hughes underscores the excitement around the new recruit.
Building a Dynamic Backfield Duo
As the Ducks gear up for the upcoming season, the combination of Whittington and Hughes could offer a formidable one-two punch in the backfield. Oregon fans remember past seasons when a robust running game made all the difference, and with two talented backs sharing the workload, the team could find new levels of offensive efficiency.
Head Coach Dan Lanning has emphasized the importance of depth at every position, and the running back room is no exception. Whittington’s ability to shoulder a heavy load and Hughes’s knack for breaking big plays create a balanced dynamic that could exploit defenses throughout the season. Having both players on the roster allows Oregon to remain adaptable and unpredictable, keeping defenses guessing.
A Shared Goal
Beyond simply enhancing the offense, both Whittington and Hughes share a deeper goal: to elevate the Ducks to new heights in college football. With the ever-present challenge of competing in a power-conference landscape, Oregon is looking to make a statement. Whittington recognizes this shared ambition, noting, “We’re not just here to make plays. We’re here to win games and compete at the highest level. That starts with building chemistry amongst ourselves.”
The camaraderie is evident not just in practice but also in their interactions off the field. According to Whittington, the two backs have engaged in conversations about techniques, philosophies, and game strategies—an indication of a bond that goes beyond just being teammates. This mutual desire for growth can only serve the Ducks positively as the season progresses.
Fans Eager for a New Season
As Oregon fans prepare for what promises to be an electrifying season, the aspirations surrounding Whittington and Hughes have galvanized support. The Ducks hold a storied history of success, and with the right pieces in place, there’s optimism surrounding the team’s approach. The excitement is palpable, as supporters look forward to a potent offensive scheme that capitalizes on the unique strengths of its running backs.
While only time will tell how successful the Ducks will be this season, the early praise from Noah Whittington suggests that Makhi Hughes is poised to make an immediate impact. With both players committed to success and ready to work tirelessly, fans can expect an exciting chapter in Oregon’s football history to unfold.
In this ever-competitive environment of college athletics, the introduction of new talent often sparks hope—and for the Ducks and their supporters, the synergy between Whittington and Hughes could be the catalyst for a meaningful and memorable season ahead.
Oregon Ducks running back Noah Whittington has expressed positive sentiments about his teammate Makhi Hughes, who transferred from Tulane. Whittington highlights Hughes’ skills and contributions to the team, noting the value he brings to the Oregon offense. As the Ducks prepare for the upcoming season, the camaraderie among the players and the integration of new talent like Hughes are seen as key factors in their pursuit of success. The coaching staff is optimistic about the depth and versatility that Hughes adds to the running back group, complementing Whittington and other established players.