The 2026 NFL Draft is still a long way off, but that hasn’t stopped fans and analysts from lining up the possible matchups and storylines.
One of the most intriguing early projections has a rising star running back potentially landing with a veteran quarterback in Los Angeles. Could a 24-touchdown weapon be the next big addition to Matthew Stafford’s offense?
PFSN Pegs Makhi Hughes as Ideal Fit in Los Angeles Rams
In a fresh three-round mock draft by PFSN’s Max Dorsey, the Los Angeles Rams could select Oregon running back Makhi Hughes in the first round. This move would bring new energy and versatility to an offense that could use a spark after some inconsistent seasons.
Hughes, who transferred to Oregon after two standout years at Tulane, already has a track record that turns heads. Across just 28 games, he piled up 2,779 rushing yards and 22 rushing touchdowns.
Last year alone, he averaged 5.3 yards per carry and caught 30 passes for 243 yards. That kind of dual-threat ability is something the Rams haven’t had in their backfield for a while.
While his early success came outside the Power 5, Hughes dominated the American Athletic Conference and now gets a shot to show he can do it on a bigger stage.
“Hughes dominated in two seasons at Tulane… will get a chance to star on a bigger stage at Oregon,” ESPN’s Matt Miller wrote, calling Hughes a “RB1 candidate in 2026” because of his explosiveness, toughness, and reliability. ESPN’s Eli Lederman also ranked him No. 4 among all returning college backs for 2025, ahead of several Power 5 standouts.
With Jordan James moving on, the backfield in Eugene is wide open for Hughes. He’s expected to take on a major workload this season, which could push him into first-round territory.
One stat that jumps out is Hughes leading all returning rushers in 2025 with 949 yards after contact, according to TruMedia. That kind of toughness and vision is exactly what the Rams need to add some punch to their run game.
Why Makhi Hughes Could Be the Rams’ First-Round Pick in 2026
Stafford isn’t getting any younger, and with Kyren Williams as the only established option, the Rams might look to lock down their backfield in next year’s draft. If Hughes shines at Oregon and builds on his 2024 numbers – 1,401 rushing yards and 17 total touchdowns – he’ll give scouts plenty to consider.
Of course, nothing is guaranteed. Hughes still has to prove himself in a crowded Oregon backfield that includes experienced players like Noah Whittington. But if he grabs the RB1 role early, the Rams, and the rest of the league, will be paying attention.
Adding a talent like Hughes would give Los Angeles a reliable, every-down back who can make plays both on the ground and through the air. That versatility could be the missing piece for an offense that’s been searching for consistency behind Stafford.
With his proven production and ability to break tackles, Hughes could help the Rams get back to being a real threat in the NFC West.
Fans will be watching closely to see how Hughes handles the step up in competition. If he keeps up his impressive numbers and shows he can dominate against top defenses, his draft stock will only rise. For the Rams, landing a player like Hughes could be the move that keeps them competitive as Stafford winds down his career.