Once 2021 Kealakehe graduate Gareth Warren got the call he always dreamed of, he wasn’t sure how to initially react.
After all, the star offensive lineman’s life goal was coming true right in front of him. The Pittsburgh Steelers were on the phone, offering Warren a spot on the team’s 90-man roster.
“At first, I was in shock,” Warren told West Hawaii Today of the phone call that took place earlier this month. “But then it really started to hit me once I got back to the hotel room, and I just started crying. This was my dream for a minute now, so it was a crazy moment.
“I’m just thankful. I give God the glory for all of that.”
Prior to joining an NFL organization, Warren spent the last four years playing for Lindenwood University in St. Charles, Mo. He started 36 of his 39 games at left guard and left tackle. Warren was a three-time All-Conference selection, including being named to the first team for his senior campaign. His presence at the line of scrimmage helped the Lions lead their association in rushing yards per contest at 173.7.
“Coming out of high school, Lindenwood was my only full-ride offer,” Warren said. “And coming from the islands, it’s expensive. Being able to help my parents financially was a blessing.”
During Warren’s junior year, a number of NFL teams came to Lindenwood practices to chat with notable upperclassmen. After speaking briefly with some organizations, Warren then believed that playing professionally was a possibility.
“I just reminded myself to put my best foot forward and keep grinding,” he said.
After his senior season, Warren received interest from the Steelers, San Diego Chargers, New York Giants and the New England Patriots. But Warren was more than OK with where he landed, especially since he is a lifelong Steelers fan.
“It worked out, because it seemed like the best fit for me,” Warren explained. “Now at rookie minicamp, I’m just putting my head down and grinding.”
Despite Warren signing his contract so recently, the grind of offseason workouts have already begun. Warren has been at the Steelers’ minicamp for the last few weeks, learning the ins and outs of the system while getting to know the coaching staff — including legendary head coach Mike Tomlin.
“I see Mike every day,” Warren said. “He tells us every day that we’re the ones that have to make the day great. It’s been so cool to watch the Steelers growing up and be in this organization now. You can tell why they’re such a great organization. It’s such a blessing just to meet Mike and the rest of the coaching staff.
“They install plays every week, and we have a good amount of plays to study film on. We also practice for about an hour and a half a day. Seeing those plays on the field and getting those reps in has been helpful.”
With training camp set to begin in July, Warren plans to come in with the intention of making the 53-man roster, but his goals go far beyond that objective.
“I just want to continue to stack the days and put my best foot forward. A small goal would be making the 53-man roster, but the big goal is to get some playing time this season, and hopefully start down the road,” he said.
Warren had never been to Pittsburgh prior to joining the team, but is enjoying the community scene thus far — despite the big-city traffic. His preconceived idea of local Steelers fans remained true, explaining that they have been nothing but welcoming and supportive since his arrival.
“The people here are so welcoming, and they love the Steelers,” Warren said. “When people say they are the best fans, I believe it. I’ve already met a good group of fans, and they are very welcoming. It’s cool to see.”
Warren had no shortage of people to thank for helping him get to this point, including his family. He pointed to his parents Solinu‘u and Leonard Warren and his wife Jenna Warren for always being crutches in his life.
Warren also pointed to his faith for always being there when times were tough.
“I’ve always tried putting my faith first, and seeing the fruits of that is so amazing. I’m very blessed,” Gareth Warren said.
Warren additionally pointed to his Big Island upbringing for helping him get to where he is. After all, it is the place where he first developed his love for the sport at seven years old.
“Growing up on the islands, we have a village behind us,” Warren said. “I knew I had a lot of support behind me, along with all of the coaches that have pushed me along the way. I knew the work would eventually pay off.”
When asked to give advice to current Big Island keiki that dream of being in Warren’s shoes, his message was simple.
“Continue to work on your craft every day, and listen to your parents,” Warren said. “Your parents know a lot. When you truly listen, you’ll see in the long run why they are the way they are. And just continue to put your head down on the field and in the classroom. Just try to be a community person first.”
See the paper in the coming months for updates on Warren’s journey in the NFL.
