Tennessee gave the 6-foot-6, 215-pound Warren his first major-conference offer on Dec. 8, and he said it was definitely surprising at the time.
It was funny because I was sitting in class the day before, and I was looking down and I had a Tennessee wristband on. And I said, Dang. One day. One day, said Warren, whos ranked the nations No. 30 tight end and the No. 23 prospect from the state of Tennessee in the 247Sports Composite for the 2018 class. And then, the next day, sure enough, got a phone call.
Warren, whos planning to attend Tennessees first junior day of the year Saturday, said it ultimately might be difficult for him to pass up the opportunity to play for the Vols.
I mean, yeah, thats always going to be on my mind, said Warren, who also holds offers from South Carolina, Missouri, Duke and Oklahoma State, among others. Thats the hometown school, and thats my quote, unquote dream school. So, I mean, yeah, thatll definitely play a role in my decision. Tennessee could be that place, but I am looking for the best place for me. (Getting a Tennessee offer) was always a dream. Its just weird now that its become true. When I was a kid, I used to be like, Oh, those guys out there. I dont know how Im ever going to be like that. Its surreal that its happened.
Despite his family ties to Tennessee, he said his father isnt pressuring him to follow in his footsteps.
I mean, we joke about it. But at the end of the day, he genuinely wants me to go where I want to go, Warren said. I mean, he would be really excited if that was UT. But if its not, then he would still be happy for me. Ive had some conversations and texts with Coach Jones, and then the new area recruiter for this area Coach Wells, I believe Ive been talking to him recently since he got the new job, Warren said. (They are) just making it known that their tight ends are going to be used now because of whos in the offensive-coordinator job and everything. Its a really good opportunity for me to do what I do now and catch passes and run routes, but also be a versatile tight end.