Penn State's Most Underrated Roster Move: Retaining its Kicker
Our Summary
Penn State head coach Matt Campbell has secured the return of kicker Ryan Barker for the 2026 season, marking a significant retention for the team's special teams unit. Barker, who announced his decision on social media, expressed deep gratitude towards Penn State for helping him achieve a lifelong dream.
Barker, a redshirt sophomore, holds the best career field-goal percentage in Penn State history at 89.2% and led the FBS with a 94.7% field-goal percentage this year, setting a new single-season record for the school. Known for his accuracy from long distances, Barker went 6-for-6 on attempts from 40-49 yards this season, with his only miss being a blocked 53-yard attempt.
His performance in the 2025 season was highlighted by his contributions in the Pinstripe Bowl against Clemson, where he successfully kicked field goals from 22, 43, and 48 yards. Interim head coach Terry Smith praised Barker's reliability following the victory
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