Penn State coach James Franklin's rebuilding job in the suddenly stout Big Ten might get a little tougher, thanks to another early departure to the NFL.
Redshirt junior defensive end Deion Barnes announced Tuesday that he would not return to Happy Valley for the 2015 season and will instead focus his efforts on preparing for the draft in the next few months.
"I talked with my family, and we believe it's best for me to move forward and forgo my fifth year," he said. "I want to thank the fans one more time and I want to thank Penn State for the opportunity you've given me. This has been the best four years of my life. I love y'all so much."
The 6-foot-4, 255 pound Barnes burst onto the scene as a redshirt freshman for the Nittany Lions, starting eight games and earning conference newcomer of the year after recording six sacks under former coach Bill O'Brien. His numbers dipped during his sophomore season as he drew increased attention from opponents, but he turned in a solid year in 2014 to boost his stock enough to consider ending his college career early.
"Our staff wants to thank Deion for all he's done here at Penn State and we wish him all the best in the NFL," Franklin added. "Deion has been great contributor for us on the field and earned his degree earlier this month. We're excited to watch him take the next step."
Barnes racked up 44 tackles, 12.5 for a loss, and six sacks this season and earned honorable mention All-Big Ten honors. While he may not be known to a ton of fans and NFL scouts outside of the Northeast, Barnes athletic frame and ability to rush the passer could allow him to go as early as the second day of the draft if he impresses at Penn State's Pro Day and at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis.
Offensive tackle Donovan Smith declared early for the draft a day before Barnes, leaving the Nittany Lions with 16 starters returning for next year.
The 2015 NFL Draft will take place in Chicago from April 30-May 2.
You can follow Bryan Fischer on Twitter at @BryanDFischer.