2025 4-star RB Kiandrea Barker commits to Penn State

Kiandrea Barker‘s mind was made up as soon as he arrived in Happy Valley.

Barker, the On3 Industry Ranking’s No. 14-ranked running back in the 2025 recruiting cycle, made an early call to commit to Penn State after making a two-day visit to campus over the past weekend.

Barker, an On300 running back originally from Beebe, Arkansas, was also giving strong consideration to Ole Miss, Mississippi State and Florida State — before Penn State and running backs coach Ja’Juan Seider made a strong first impression on the four-star ball carrier.

For Barker, the Nittany Lions’ brand and track record at his position was too good of an opportunity to pass up. He did not leave town without giving a commitment to the coaching staff.

“Penn State is a great college and they play the kind of football I like,” Barker told On3. “My favorite running back is Saquon Barkley. That’s where he comes from and (that’s) who I think my style of game is closely matched to. The year that Nick Singleton had this past season, I think Penn State is where home is and who can get me to the top level of football.”

Barker grew up idolizing Saquan Barkley

Penn State has maintained a unique place in Barker’s recruitment.

Barker, who will suit up as a junior for The Woodlands (Texas) High School just north of Houston, made the early decision not only to pledge — but to the Nittany Lions after soaking up the atmosphere and spending time around the coaches, players and other recruits this past weekend.

The 6-foot, 185-pound Barker grew up idolizing Barkley, who shined in Penn State’s backfield in Beaver Stadium under James Franklin’s watch. Now, he is looking forward to trying to follow in those same footsteps in the Big Ten.

“Penn State was one of my first big-time offers,” Barker said. “Growing up, I watched Saquan before he got drafted, so I knew that if Penn State ever offered they would be one of my top choices.”

That turned into fruition this week, as the Nittany Lions got busy building a strong foundation and furthering their deep group of talented backs in 2025.

Barker checks in as the No. 161 overall player in the nation in next year’s recruiting cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He is the No. 27-ranked recruit from the talent-laden state of Texas.