Satterfield talks Sims' fit, WR potential, and Nebraska's new 'position-less offense'

The new look of Nebraska’s offense under head coach Matt Rhule started to take shape with some official additions to the roster on the 2023 Early Signing Day. 

But while there are new names to plug into the mix at several spots, offensive coordinator Marcus Satterfield made one thing clear – everything is fluid at the skill positions.

In an interview with the Huskers Radio Network, Satterfield touched on several of NU’s latest signees. Versatility was a commonality, and that trait would be a defining hallmark of Nebraska’s offense.

“It’s a position-less offense,” Satterfield said. “You have a quarterback, and you have your o-line, but receivers can play running back, running backs can play receiver, tight ends can play running back or play receiver. 

“We’re going to find what guys do well, and we’re not going pigeonhole them into one spot just because it says TE or WR. We’re going to find what they do best and get them in those positions.”

Jeff Sims checked every box on Satterfield’s QB wish list

Satterfield has a very particular vision of what he wants quarterbacks to be in Nebraska’s offense. It didn’t take long for him to see that Georgia Tech transfer Jeff Sims fit that description perfectly.

P.J. Walker at Temple and Charlie Brewer at Baylor were two of the most successful QBs that Rhule and Satterfield have had. Both players had high-level football IQs and arm talent along with their dual-threat ability.

Satterfield said Sims was cut from that same cloth.

“When you turn the tape on with Jeff, you see a guy who’s got an elite throwing motion; unbelievable wrist,” Satterfield said. “He was under duress a lot this past year, and he kind of got beat up a little bit… I just love the kid. I think what he brings to an offense is, when I met with him, just his football brain and knowledge. 

“Those guys at Georgia Tech did a really nice job to this point from a mental standpoint. He’s got it. He understands the game. We just have to put him in situations where he can be successful.”

When Satterfield and Sims first met during the recruiting process earlier this month, they bonded immediately.

“We had such a connection because of the football – like, he is a football junkie,” Satterfield said. “Him talking football with me, right off the bat, I knew that we had a chance because you match that athletic ability, arm talent, and that football knowledge, competitiveness, and the young man he is, I think we have a good player.”

Could Jaidyn Doss be Nebraska’s Deebo Samuel?

Jaidyn Doss initially committed to Nebraska’s previous coaching staff, but it didn’t take Satterfield long to be sold on the receiver from Raymore, Missouri.

The 6-foot, 195-pound three-star racked up more than 2,000 receiving yards and nearly 1,000 rushing yards in his high school career. His combination of speed, strength, skill, and versatility had Satterfield drawing comparisons to San Francisco 49ers do-it-all star Deebo Samuel.

“His mobility and just his way of doing things is awesome. There’s a toughness about him…” Satterfield said. “He can play the inside receiver and motion him around, create matchups on linebackers and safeties. He’s a really good route runner; he’s got exceptional hands. He’s got the ability to catch the ball in transition with a great smoothness about him. 

“Just the way that he blocks on the perimeter fits into our culture – just physical and tough and competitive. I’m excited to get him on board. I think he can do a lot of different things for us in the passing game and the run game.”

Jaylen Lloyd’s competitive drive stood out as much as his speed

When it comes to Omaha Westside receiver signee Jaylen Lloyd, his elite track-level speed immediately jumps out.

But as impressive as his athleticism is, Satterfield said Lloyd’s drive to prove he was a complete football player made him different. Satterfield said that was immediately apparent during their meeting on his first day on the road.

“He’s a great kid,” Satterfield said. “Looks you in the eye; has great communication. So right there, you think he’s got a chance to be special. Then you see his track times, and you turn on the football. The thing I like about him – one of the comments he made to me was, ‘People think I’m just a track guy and not a football player. I’m a football player.’ 

“When he said that, it kind of gave me chills a little bit. Me and Coach Rhule looked at each other and said, ‘Alright, there’s that chip on his shoulder that he needs to take that next step as being a very good football player.'”

Josh Fleeks will play a critical role on and off the field for Nebraska

After originally signing with Rhule at Baylor in 2018, sixth-year senior wide receiver transfer Josh Fleeks reunited with his old coaches at Nebraska.

That familiarity made it an easy decision for both sides. But Satterfield said Fleeks’ value for the Huskers would be invaluable on and off the field during a critical Year 1.

In 14 games under Rhule with the Bears, the 5-foot-10, 190-pound native of Dallas, Texas, caught 39 passes for 388 yards and two total touchdowns. He also returned 32 kicks for 622 yards.

However, Fleeks’ leadership, knowledge of the offense, and understanding of Rhule’s culture would be just as valuable.

“He was very productive for us when we were at Baylor…” Satterfield said. “He’s a guy that’s played in some really big games over the last five years, and we’re going to lean on him for his experience. 

“He understands the culture, and he understands how we do things, and he understands the offseason. We’re going to really lean on him to implement that with these young guys coming in.”

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