Penn State football head coach Matt Campbell is getting to work on the recruiting trail. (Mandatory Credit: Matthew O'Haren-Imagn Images)
With Matt Campbell‘s jump from Ames to Happy Valley, Iowa State signees are faced with a tough decision. Stay at Iowa State, go to Penn State, or find a new home entirely.
Linebacker Barry Fries is no different.
From Ames to Happy Valley: Why Barry Fries Reopened His Recruitment
Hailing from Nebraska, Fries is a 3-star Linebacker. He holds offers from Iowa State, Sacramento State, Air Force, and a few others. He had been locked in with Campbell at Iowa State until Campbell got hired at Penn State. Since then, Fries has been released from his letter of intent.
Recently, Fries talked about all things recruiting with NittanyCentral.
“The last week has been very stressful.” Fries told NittanyCentral. “I waited all week to talk to the Iowa State staff, and finally talked to them Friday night. I wanted to talk to them before making any decisions.”
Fries said there were several reasons to choose Iowa State in the first place.
“I chose Iowa State for many reasons,” Fries explains. “But the most important ones being the culture that Campbell had built there, the coaching staff was also a huge part of my decision, they showed belief in me, and had a high expectation for me that I was excited to meet.”
The Campbell Effect: “A Truly Genuine Man”
That culture is one that Campbell played a gigantic role in building.
“Coach Campbell is a truly genuine man who coaches for the players and for the community.” Fries said about Campbell. “Every conversation I have had with Coach Campbell has been all about my family and me, and less about the football parts of it.”
As the plans for his future look to be up in the air, Fries has a decision to make. Where to take his talents at the next level? Fries said he is open to Happy Valley.
“I would for sure heavily consider following the coaching staff if the opportunity presents itself.” Fries said.
Texas QB Kase Evans Adds to Matt Campbell’s First Penn State Football Class
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Ian Purdy covers Penn State Football Recruiting for NittanyCentral.
Purdy was born and raised in central Ohio and served for four years writing for his high school's newsletter. Currently studying Biblical Studies at Lancaster Bible College in Pennsylvania, Ian has been a lifelong Nittany Lion fan.
- EXCLUSIVE: 3-Star LB Barry Fries ‘Heavily Considering’ Following Matt Campbell to Happy Valley - December 17, 2025
- Source: Penn State Set to Retain Key Staff Member - December 16, 2025
- Texas QB Kase Evans Adds to Matt Campbell’s First Penn State Football Class - December 14, 2025
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