06-05-2025
Big Island's Gareth Warren earns Steelers camp invite
Following the conclusion of the 2025 NFL Draft, several players with Hawai'i ties have received opportunities to pursue their professional football dreams — including Big Island native Gareth Warren.
The Kealakehe High School graduate and three-time all-conference selection at FCS Lindenwood University has earned a rookie mini-camp invite with the Pittsburgh Steelers. At 6-foot-6 and 328 pounds, Warren brings both size and determination to the next level.
While his path hasn't followed the traditional route, Warren has become an inspiration for those forging their way from small college programs to the professional ranks. His journey has included a standout showing at the East-West Shrine Bowl, leading to interest from NFL scouts.
'Yeah, I hope to motivate a lot of, you know, especially the boys and Big Island,' Warren said. 'I grew up there, born and raised there. A lot of people watching probably think, 'this kid came from over here, he put in the work, he tried to serve the community,' and now he's here. Just to show the kids that if you put in the work, you'll see results.'
While he acknowledged the unpredictability of the draft process, Warren remains focused on what he can control.
'Right now, it's just preparing the best I can for camp,' he said. 'This is something you dream about from a young age. I started football when I was 7 or 8. To see it come to reality now—it's crazy. Words can't explain the emotions, but I'm ready to go out there and put in the work.'
Adding to the life-changing week, Warren also got married over the weekend to his now-wife, Jenna, in Missouri. The honeymoon is temporarily on hold, as he will report to Steelers mini-camp, which runs Friday through Sunday in Pittsburgh.
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