East Lansing — When Julian Barnett arrived on Michigan State’s campus last summer he did so as one of the top-rated cornerbacks in the nation.
Throughout preseason camp, the former Belleville standout worked exclusively at the cornerback position as the Spartans sorted out a talented depth chart that included junior Josiah Scott but were attempting to replace Justin Layne, who left early for the NFL.
Barnett seemed like he’d get a shot to play, but just before the season, coach Mark Dantonio approached him about flipping to the offense to play wide receiver.