News Summary
Oklahoma State University has added transfer punter Chase Barry from UCLA, enhancing its special teams for the upcoming season. Standing at 6 feet 4 inches and weighing 205 pounds, Barry brings experience from his time at UCLA, where he played a critical role on special teams. His academic achievements and performance, including a standout 62-yard punt, make him a valuable addition. As OSU navigates changes in its roster and coaching staff, Barry’s skills are expected to bolster the team’s punting game and contribute to their success in the forthcoming season.
Stillwater, Oklahoma – Oklahoma State University (OSU) has welcomed transfer punter Chase Barry from UCLA, marking him as the third former Bruin to join the Cowboys this offseason. Barry’s arrival is part of an effort to strengthen the special teams unit as OSU eyes a more successful 2025 season.
Chase Barry’s Background
Chase Barry, who stands at 6 feet 4 inches and weighs 205 pounds, offers a significant physical presence in the punting position. He spent three seasons with the UCLA Bruins, contributing primarily as a holder on special teams and punting a total of three times for 118 yards, resulting in an average of 39.3 yards per punt.
In the 2024 season, Barry appeared in all 12 games for UCLA and showcased his leg strength, including a notable 62-yard punt during the season opener against Hawaii. His collegiate performance also includes a 39-yard punt against Alabama State in his freshman year, although he was sidelined for the entire 2023 season.
Academic Achievement
Barry’s commitment to academics was evident as he graduated from UCLA in just three years, earning a spot on the Athletic Director’s Honor Roll seven times during his time at the university. This achievement reflects his dedication not only to football but also to his education.
Transfer Journey
Initially, Barry entered the transfer portal and committed to the University of Cincinnati before ultimately selecting OSU. His decision aligns with the Cowboys’ intention to enhance their special teams after they were left with only one punter on the roster following the transfer of Aussie Hudson Kaak to Ole Miss.
Adding Experience to OSU
As OSU’s second specialist added to the roster this offseason—following kicker Gabe Panikowski’s transfer from Idaho State—Barry is expected to bring valuable experience and skill to the team’s punting game. Competition for the starting punter position is anticipated, but analysts see Barry’s background and training as significant assets as he joins the Cowboys.
OSU’s Strategic Plans
The addition of Chase Barry comes as OSU seeks to build a stronger foundation after a disappointing last season where the team secured only three wins. With new coordinators Todd Grantham on defense and Doug Meacham on offense, the university aims to improve its overall performance and effectiveness in special teams, which has been a priority in their offseason strategy.
Context of Transfers
Barry is the third player from UCLA to transfer to OSU, following defensive back Jaylin Davies and defensive lineman Sitiveni Havili-Kaufusi, indicating a trend of collaboration between the two universities. The Cowboys seem to be leveraging the transfer portal effectively to recover from past difficulties, particularly in areas that faltered in the previous season.
The upcoming 2025 season is poised as a pivotal year for Oklahoma State, with the hopes that the reinforcements to their special teams will provide a marked improvement on the field. As Barry integrates into the program, all eyes will be on how his skills contribute to establishing a more competitive Cowboys team.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Heavy Rain and Roster Changes Impact UCLA’s Spring Football
Additional Resources
- Pistols Firing Blog
- Wikipedia: Chase Barry
- Sports Illustrated
- Google Search: Oklahoma State University football
- BVM Sports
- Google Scholar: college football transfers
- ESPN
- Encyclopedia Britannica: transfer portal
- NFL.com
- Google News: Oklahoma State Chase Barry
