Makhi Hughes, RB (Tulane)
Texas and running backs coach Tashard Choice are potentially looking to take at least one transfer running back from the portal for the 2025 season. What the Longhorns are looking for in a transfer running back from the portal is a bigger back who can fit a specific role in the backfield for the Longhorns' offense.
The Longhorns have a few question marks for the running back room ahead of the upcoming offseason. We don't know what the injury status of sophomore running back CJ Baxter Jr. will be next season after he suffered a season-ending knee injury this fall in camp.
Texas could also possibly lose a running back or two to the transfer portal after the postseason in the Playoff concludes in January.
Former Tulane Green Wave two-time All-AAC First-Team running back Makhi Hughes has immediately become one of the most highly sought after rusher in the winter portal after he officially transferred on Dec. 27.
Hughes rushed for over 1,400 yards and a career-high 15 touchdowns on the ground. He had seven games with over 100 rushing yards and a rushing touchdown.
In 2023, Hughes led the AAC in rushing yards (over 1,300) as a true freshman for the Green Wave. He's been about as reliable and productive as a bigger-bodied running back gets in college. He's the only FBS running back with over 20 total touchdowns and zero fumbles since 2023.
At 5-foot-11 and 215 pounds, Hughes has that bigger frame that allows him to run between the tackles and fight through contact effectively in the rushing attack.