It’s tough when you cut short the dream you carried since childhood. And that’s the reality for a former Georgia Bulldogs wide receiver whose story is ending far earlier than anyone expected. He grew up with football stitched into his DNA. His dad played in the NFL, the kind of career a little boy would look up to like a North Star. Makiya Tongue first burst onto the scene at the University of Georgia in 2019 as a wide receiver. But after playing in just three games during his freshman year, he made the decision to transfer. The pull back home to Oregon State was strong, especially because of his dad, Reggie Tongue.

Reggie was a standout safety for the Beavers and also enjoyed a long NFL career for the Oakland Raiders. Makiya wanted to carve his own path there, build on the family legacy. At Oregon State, Makiya faced stiff competition and some tough breaks. Over the 2021 and 2022 seasons, he played receiver but only managed two catches for 32 yards. Late in 2023, disaster struck in a game against San Diego State. Makiya ripped his left knee apart. He ended up tearing the ACL, MCL, patellar tendon, and meniscus. That injury wiped out not just the rest of that year but the entire 2024 season as well. But recently, during preparations for what was supposed to be his comeback season, he sustained yet another season-ending knee injury.

For Tongue, this was the final straw. After battling through three devastating knee injuries in five years, he has decided to medically retire from football. The announcement came with a heartfelt message on Instagram, reflecting his pride in the fight he put up, but also his honest weariness. “I have poured everything into this game, both mentally and physically, but to be honest, I am worn out,” he said. And the caption read, “3 out 🫶🏽.” However, Makiya remains optimistic. “I am grateful for all this game has given me,” he added. “But I feel that God has greater plans for me, and I am ready for the next chapter of my life.”

It’s a tough pill to swallow. You know, stepping away from a sport you’ve dedicated yourself to since you were a kid. And especially when you come from NFL blood and grew up dreaming of making your own mark. “ The past 5 years, I’ve battled 3 season-ending knee surgeries, Makiya added. “But came back a better, stronger man each time. I’m proud of myself for that.” This season, he was looking ready to compete for a starting spot alongside teammates like Raesjon Davis. But this fourth major knee injury in five years was too much to take. And after much thought, Tongue decided to hang up his cleats. Tongue’s journey wasn’t the fairy tale many imagined when he was a top recruit. But it’s definitely a testament to courage and perseverance.

Protecting the future of the Beavers after Makiya Tongue’s exit

After the sudden and unfortunate retirement of Makiya Tongue due to recurring knee injuries, the Oregon State Beavers head into the 2025 season with a reshaped roster. On offense, the Beavers have a solid mix of youth and experience. The quarterback room features Maalik Murphy. A junior known for his strong arm and leadership, he stands alongside freshmen and sophomores like Kallen Gutridge and Gabarri Johnson, who bring fresh energy. In the backfield, senior Marquis Crosby provides a seasoned presence, and fresh legs like Kourdey Glass and Jake Reichle complement him.

The wide receiver corps offers a good blend of size and speed, with seniors like Darrius Clemons and Jimmy Valsin III leading the charge. They are supported by junior Karson Boschma and a crop of young talents, including Malachi Durant and Eddie Freauff. Tight end play remains strong with senior Bryce Caufield anchoring the position and younger players like Cooper Jensen and Jackson Bowers providing depth. The offensive line shows promising continuity.

It is anchored by seniors Tyler Voltin and Van Wells, vital for protecting the quarterback and opening running lanes. Defensively, losing Tongue leaves a void. But then players like Raesjon Davis are stepping up to fill leadership roles at linebacker. The team fields a mixture of experienced juniors and seniors, as well as younger players eager to make their mark. While Tongue’s medical retirement is a setback, Oregon State’s linebacking corps and defensive front will rely on this blend to maintain competitiveness.