Iowa defensive back Maurice Fleming has decided to exercise his graduate-transfer option and will attempt to find another school to play for this season.

Fleming was listed as Iowa’s starting cornerback entering spring football, though it was mostly because Greg Mabin missed time with an injury. Mabin should return soon, and with Josh Jackson impressing coaches, Fleming probably felt he would not see the field this season.

“Maurice has shared his desire to spend his fifth and final season as a graduate transfer at another institution,” head coach Kirk Ferentz said in a release.  “Reese has been a valuable contributor throughout his career at Iowa, and we wish him the best in his final season this fall.”

Fleming saw significant action over the past three years and played in all 14 games last season. In addition to spot defensive duty, he was also a huge part of the special teams.

He finishes his Iowa career with 31 tackles, 6 pass deflections, and 1 forced fumble. The Hawkeyes will miss the depth at this position, and while the transfer may seem somewhat insignificant now, a couple injuries could change that perception.

Regardless, it does not seem this was a transfer for any other reason than playing time.

“I feel blessed for my time at Iowa and want to thank coach Kirk Ferentz and coach Phil Parker for their help in making me a better football player and keeping me humble,” Fleming said in a release.  “At this time, I am going to explore my options to make the best of my senior year.”

—Jordan Hanen