Linebacker Reginald Hughes 'Lets His Hair Down' in New Ole Miss Defense

The Ole Miss linebacker was made available to the media on Monday.

OXFORD, Miss. -- Reginald Hughes is used to life at outside linebacker, but he is becoming reacquainted with it in Pete Golding's defense with the Ole Miss Rebels.

Hughes is a senior by way of Northeast Mississippi Community College, and he originally played ball at Rosa Fort High School in Tunica, Miss. Although he appeared in 12 games as a junior at Ole Miss, he feels that he has been able to hit the ground running this year in fall camp.

"This year, it's been a complete turnaround for me," Hughes said. "Camp has been going great. Last year, I didn't get the chance to compete in camp as much as I wanted to. I feel like I've produced a lot."

One shift for Hughes is that he now finds himself at outside linebacker, something that he was familiar with in the past. Now, it's all about readjusting after a different role in 2022. 

"Outside linebacker is kind of my home," Hughes said. "I already played outside linebacker prior to Ole Miss. It's just getting back comfortable with it."

Pete Golding is not only the Rebels' defensive coordinator, but he is also the linebackers coach on staff. With the new scheme included, Hughes claims to feel more at home in this defense than the one a season ago.

"I feel like I can let my hair down way more in this defense," Hughes said. "Schematically, it was something I was comfortable with before coming to Ole Miss. I'm putting my foot on the gas and looking forward to this year.

"Having Golding as my position coach kind of makes you get on your horse a little more."

Hughes and the Rebels are set to open their season at home against the Mercer Bears on Sept. 2.

---

You can follow John Macon on Twitter at @JMakeGillespie.

Want the latest in breaking news and insider information on the Rebels? Click Here.

Follow The Grove Report On Facebook and Twitter.

Want even more Ole Miss Rebels News? Check out the SI.com team page here.