Drew Allar breaks down the value of Julian Fleming for Penn State football

Penn State football made a splash in the transfer portal this winter, bringing a trio of former five-star prospects in to Happy Valley. But the one who stands out above the rest is ex-Ohio State wide receiver Julian Fleming. The former No. 1 pass catcher in the nation will look to boost a Nittany Lions receiver room that was sorely lacking in 2022. With spring ball fast approaching and a new playbook to be installed, there isn’t a moment to lose for Fleming to get on the same page with Drew Allar and the Penn State offense.

On Saturday, Drew Allar gave his early impressions of Julian Fleming’s first few weeks in Happy Valley and explained why the skillset the graduate transfer brings to the table will be so valuable for Penn State football.

Drew Allar: Julian Fleming brings valuable skillset on and off the field

After losing the Keystone State’s top prospect the first time around in 2020, Julian Fleming returned home, transferring from Ohio State to Penn State this January. The timing couldn’t be any better for a Nittany Lions offense that struggled to find big plays through the air last fall.

Fleming hasn’t been on campus long, but he’s already standing out to those in and around the Penn State football program. During availability following Penn State’s THON Explorers Program Saturday, Nittany Lions QB Drew Allar raved about how the transfer portal wide receiver is adjusting to his new program.

“He’s looked really good,” Allar said. “I think he brings a lot of experience and a lot of maturity to that room. I think he’s just a really good add to our room, not only skill-wise but personality off the field-wise, too.

“He’s been great so far. Obviously, he’s been doing his thing in the weight room and on the field when we get those opportunities. And then he’s doing really well when we’re doing our throwing as a team. I’ve been nothing but impressed with Julian; he handles everything the right way and approaches everything like a pro.”

Fleming’s versatility will open up Andy Kotelnicki’s playbook

While Julian Fleming will be relied upon as the Nittany Lions’ top pass catcher, that’s not all he can bring to the Penn State offense in 2024. Allar believes the graduate transfer’s versatility will allow Penn State to open up the playbook this fall.

“I think he’s just a great addition to our room, again, just because of how versatile he is as a receiver,” Allar said. “He’s not only a great receiver, but he’s a great blocker, and you can do a lot of different things that most receivers aren’t willing to do.”

As for that playbook, there’s still plenty of work to be done. Penn State football will look for a fresh start on offense under new coordinator Andy Kotelnicki. While the installation of the offense is still ongoing, Drew Allar explained how Fleming is taking the right approach with the entire process.

“He’s done a great job with just being very open-minded and asking a ton of questions, not only to me, but to the whole coaching staff with everything being installed with Coach K,” Allar said. “So I think he’s done a great job. And he’s also bringing the young guys along. And I think he’s a great mentor for all of them.”

James Franklin: Transfer portal WR earning his way in the Penn State locker room

Drew Allar wasn’t the only one with positive early feedback on Julian Fleming this week. During media availability this week, Penn State football coach James Franklin also provided an update on the transfer portal wideout’s transition to Happy Valley.

“Julian has done a really good job,” Franklin said. “Like most scenarios, whether it’s a job or a team you’re joining, I think the first thing you do is keep your mouth shut and your ears open, and put your head down and go to work and earn everybody’s respect. Then, over time, gradually become more vocal, if that’s part of your leadership style and personality.

“I think he has done a good job of that. I’ve heard good reports from the strength staff, from the coaches, and from the players, probably most importantly. He’s done a good job with all of those things.”

Franklin also provided insight on the value that he believes the graduate transfer provides from his four years with the Ohio State Buckeyes.

His ability to play in this league, I think, is helpful,” he expressed. “He understands what this league is all about, he also has an understanding about the Playoffs, as well. So, I think those things are valuable. He’s an older guy, which I also think helps in that room.”

We will get to see Drew Allar, Julian Fleming, and the revamped Penn State offense in action on April 13 for the annual Blue-White game.

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