Oregon Ducks transfer portal rumors point to the potential unexpected departure of key playmaker
Even though all attention is on the Rose Bowl, the transfer portal doesn't stop moving. The latest reports are that Oregon is the frontrunner to land Tulane transfer running back Makhi Hughes, the top running back in the transfer portal, which could be providing a massive signal about the Ducks' backfield going forward. So far, there […]
Even though all attention is on the Rose Bowl, the transfer portal doesn't stop moving.
The latest reports are that Oregon is the frontrunner to land Tulane transfer running back Makhi Hughes, the top running back in the transfer portal, which could be providing a massive signal about the Ducks' backfield going forward.
So far, there hasn't been any word about any of the Oregon running backs declaring for the 2025 NFL Draft. Going after a true workhorse back with 2,779 rushing yards and 22 touchdowns in the last two seasons is a pretty strong indicator that one of Jordan James or Noah Whittington could be preparing to move on to the next level.
James has been the hammer for Oregon this season, giving them the ability to air it out and win high-scoring affairs, or lean on James in physical, more closely contested battles. The offense is at its best when James is rolling, which he has consistently done all year. Once the ground game is established, it opens everything up for quarterback Dillon Gabriel.
So far this season, James has handled a robust 226 rushing attempts, turning that into 1,253 rushing yards and 15 rushing touchdowns.
Hughes is the older brother of one of Oregon's top 2025 recruits, 5-star cornerback Na'eem Offord. With his little brother heading to the Ducks, it's yet another reason pointing to Hughes potentially taking his talent to Eugene for the 2025 season.
Follow along all year for more Oregon Ducks coverage on A to Z Sports. You can find me on Bluesky @jonhelmkamp.bsky.social, as well as follow our main page @AtoZSports.bsky.social for all the latest news.
