Ooltewah’s TJ Warren tackles Siegel’s Treyton Harris at Siegel High School in September.
Photo by Aaron Thompson/DNJIt took only one campus visit for T.J. Warren to realize where he would continue his football career. After spending the weekend touring Furman’s campus and discussing future on-field plans with coaches there, the Ooltewah senior committed to the Paladins.
The 6-foot-3, 200-pound Warren, who played a hybrid linebacker/defensive end as well as receiver for the Owls the last two seasons, projects as a strongside linebacker at the Southern Conference school.
“I was sold on everything they had to offer,” Warren said. “The campus is one of the most beautiful there is, academically it offers everything I want, and the football program is pretty good, too. I had never heard one negative thing about Furman the whole time I’ve been recruited by them, and it was just an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.
“Leading up to getting a phone call from Furman about two weeks ago, I was stressed. I had an offer from Austin Peay and UTC was recruiting me, but once I got to Furman and saw it for myself and talked with the coaches and other players, I knew that’s where I want to be.”
Last season Warren made 51.5 total tackles, 13 sacks, 24 tackles for loss and a pass interception. He also was one of the Owls’ leading receivers.