After suffering a season-ending injury in 2023, defensive tackle Ford is making an impact in fall camp.
The award is given annually to the best linebacker in college football.
Barker said he is still considering Penn State.
The Nittany Lions moved up five spots from their No. 13 ranking at the end of the 2023 season.
Warren's seven touchdowns were third-most in the nation last year.
"He is as driven and as committed as a young player I've ever been around."