The Minnesota Golden Gophers are bolstering their receiving corps with the addition of former Nebraska football wideout Malachi Coleman, who announced his transfer commitment to P.J. Fleck’s program late last week. Coleman, a talented 6-foot-5, 210-pound receiver, will bring his size and athleticism to the Gophers for the 2025 season.
Coleman entered the transfer portal on December 9, leaving the Cornhuskers after two seasons under head coach Matt Rhule. During his time with the Huskers, Coleman experienced a promising start but saw a reduction in playing time in his sophomore year to almost nothing. NU coaches had said they wanted him to redshirt and get back after it in 2025.
As a true freshman for the Nebraska football team in 2023, Coleman played in 11 games, starting six, and demonstrated his potential with eight catches for 139 yards and two touchdowns. His ability to stretch the field was evident in his 17.4 yards-per-catch average, including a 44-yard reception. However, in 2024, Coleman’s role diminished significantly, and he ultimately took a redshirt year after appearing in just one game and recording no offensive snaps.
A Promising High School Prospect to former Nebraska football star
A four-star prospect out of Lincoln East High School in Lincoln, Coleman was one of the top recruits in the 2023 cycle. Ranked as the No. 1 player in the state and the No. 11 wide receiver nationally, he received nearly 30 scholarship offers before committing to the Huskers in October 2022.
Following coaching changes and off-field turmoil, Coleman reaffirmed his commitment to the Cornhuskers under Matt Rhule. However, after two years, Coleman now seeks a fresh start in Minnesota.
At Minnesota, Coleman will work with head coach P.J. Fleck, offensive coordinator Greg Harbaugh Jr., and wide receivers coach Matt Simon to reignite his college football career. His addition brings both high upside and a proven track record, offering a valuable weapon for the Golden Gophers’ offense in 2025. He’ll face off against his former Nebraska football teammates next October 18.