Utah Utes all-time greatest football players: No. 20 Marv Fleming

The NFL great established roots in Salt Lake City during the 1960s

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Marv Fleming, a standout tight end from the University of Utah, left a significant mark during his college football career before transitioning to a successful professional career in the NFL. Born on January 2, 1942, in Longview, Texas, Fleming moved to Los Angeles during his youth, where he attended Compton High School. His skills on the field earned him a scholarship to play for the Utah Utes, where he would go on to be a key contributor to the team in the early 1960s.

Fleming played for the Utah Utes from 1960 to 1962. During his time at Utah, he quickly established himself as a versatile and reliable tight end, both in the passing game and as a blocker. His size and athleticism made him a challenging matchup for defenders, and his ability to make key plays in critical moments set him apart. While Fleming's individual statistics may not stand out by modern standards, his impact on the field was undeniable. The tight end position in Fleming's era was more focused on blocking and complementing the running game, a role that he excelled in during his collegiate career.

One of the highlights of Fleming's time at Utah was his role in helping the Utes achieve a solid 1960 season under head coach Ray Nagel. Although the team did not achieve national prominence during Fleming's tenure, his contributions were critical to the team's competitiveness in the Skyline Conference. Fleming's performance at Utah earned him recognition as an All-Skyline Conference selection, highlighting his excellence at his position.

Fleming's collegiate success laid the groundwork for his entry into the NFL. In 1963, he was selected by the Green Bay Packers in the 11th round of the NFL Draft. Despite being a late-round pick, Fleming's skills and work ethic allowed him to carve out a remarkable career at the professional level. He played for the Packers under legendary coach Vince Lombardi, winning multiple NFL championships and Super Bowls.

Marv Fleming's career at the University of Utah is remembered as one that showcased his adaptability, toughness, and football intelligence. While he may not have garnered national attention during his college years, his impact on the Utes and his eventual rise to NFL stardom is a testament to his hard work and determination. Today, Fleming is celebrated not only as a Utah football alumnus but also as a pioneer who helped pave the way for future tight ends in the game.