Hughes made his senior championship debut in 2017, then established himself as first choice goalkeeper.[4] He played in the opening three matches of 2022 National League, but lost his place in the team after that.[4][1]
In late-2022, Hughes opted out of inter-county football to focus on the business he co-owns, H&G Performance.[4] Hughes returned at the start of 2024 after an injury to the other goalkeeper.[4][9][10]
^ abc"Hughes quits Armagh squad". Hogan Stand. 22 December 2022. However, the 26-year-old was dropped for their fourth-round clash against Mayo as Ethan Rafferty came in between the posts for Kieran McGeeney's side.