For the Nebraska Cornhuskers, the addition of a proven, veteran wide receiver talent would be welcomed with 1890 initiated open arms. A young exciting receiving corps would definitely benefit from having someone in the room with veteran experience. Matt Rhule is looking in the portal for someone that is not only very talented, but also a team first player.
Nebraska Cornhuskers Potentially Landing Julian Fleming
A lot of the the excitement surrounding Fleming is the possibility of him and Kyle McCord linking up again. While there is a strong likelihood that the two will elect to transfer to the same school, it was his year catching passes from CJ Stroud, in 2022, that has he Nebraska Cornhuskers fanbase excited.
The former 5 star recruit out of Pennsylvania had injury setbacks his first two years as a buckeye, but really burst onto the scene in his third year. Among a deeply talented wide receiver roster, Fleming managed over 500 yards and six touchdowns, on 34 receptions.
Areas that he really excels at are, finding windows for his quarterback to throw the ball to, and being able to make contested catches in traffic. His athleticism and skillset are reasons why the Nebraska Cornhuskers would be excited to add him.
Nebraska Cornhuskers If Both Join
Fleming was not targeted as much as the previous year when McCord was the starting quarterback. He was often the fourth or fifth option on plays behind Marvin Harrison Jr., Emeka Egbuka, Cade Stover, and the running back group.
Despite this, on critical plays, McCord was very comfortable with Fleming, and trusted him in key moments. Their chemistry is apparent and would likely carryover to any new destination.
Nebraska Cornhuskers Possible Fleming Arrives Solo
If McCord and Fleming decide to go to different teams during their transfer recruiting, Fleming would be a really valuable addition, outside of just his receiving ability.
Coach Rhule has made it clear that building a team first culture, and establishing the right habits is what the foundation of his program will be built upon. This is what should really have fans of the Nebraska Cornhuskers excited about Fleming coming to Lincoln.
While not being a main target on the offense, after a promising third year that looked like he had set the stage for an improved fourth, he often took the field as a gunner on special teams. Accepting of role, his speed and hustle were on display every time he took the field. But more importantly, some players would choose to let their effort drop off, or allow body language to show their displeasure of lack of playing time.
He stayed mentally strong, stayed ready and now is looking to showcase is full potential in a new environment.
In what was probably his best, most impressive moment of the season, McCord looked to Fleming on an important fourth down conversion, on the road against Notre Dame.
Kyle McCord to Julian Fleming for a first down! #NotreDame #OhioState #OSUvsND #GoBucks #FightingIrish pic.twitter.com/IlMHrUfdf4
— CFBMuse (@CFBMuse) September 24, 2023
If both players end up coming to the Nebraska Cornhuskers, they are getting an experienced combination. If only Fleming decides to come, the program is getting the exact caliber and character of a player that Matt Rhule is looking for.
Regardless of where he plays next year, opposing secondaries will have their hands full with is play making ability and tenacity.