Home / Sports / Ex-Oregon RB Hughes Joins Fritz at Houston
Ex-Oregon RB Hughes Joins Fritz at Houston
5 Jan
Summary
- Makhi Hughes left Oregon after minimal playing time.
- Hughes reunites with former coach Willie Fritz at Houston.
- Hughes had over 2,000 yards in two seasons at Tulane.
Makhi Hughes, a highly touted transfer running back, has exited the Oregon Ducks program after just one season, opting to join the Houston Cougars. Hughes played sparingly for Oregon, accumulating less than 20 carries and 100 yards during the year, prompting his decision to seek a new opportunity.
This move marks a reunion for Hughes with head coach Willie Fritz, who previously coached him at Tulane. In Fritz's final season with the Green Wave in 2023, Hughes was a standout freshman, rushing for 1,378 yards and seven touchdowns. He now heads to the Big 12 with a chance to regain his productive form within a system he knows well.
The Oregon Ducks are set to experience a significant shift in their running back depth for the 2026 season. With Hughes' departure and the expected exit of Noah Whittington, coupled with uncertainty surrounding Jayden Limar and Da'Juan Riggs, the team will rely heavily on emerging talents like Jordon Davison and Dierre Hill Jr., bolstered by four-star recruit Tradarian Ball.
