David Warren (American football) facts for kids

David Warren, born on October 14, 1978, is a former American football player. He played both American and Canadian football during his career. David is from Tyler, Texas.

Early Life and High School Football

David Warren was a talented football player from a young age. He attended John Tyler High School in Texas.

High School Success

In 1994, as a sophomore, David played for the John Tyler Lions. Their team had an amazing season, winning all 16 games. They became the 5A Division II state champions in Texas. During one famous game, David caught a touchdown pass. He also scored another touchdown by recovering a fumble on defense. That season, he made 124 tackles and had six sacks.

As a junior, David continued to excel. He recorded 126 tackles, 18 sacks, and blocked four punts.

National Recognition

By 1996, while still in high school, David was recognized as one of the best players in the country. USA Today named him the High School Defensive Player of the Year. He also won the Bobby Dodd National Lineman of the Year award. Even though opposing teams often had two or three players trying to block him, he still managed 106 tackles and 8.5 sacks. David was also a fast runner, winning a district title in the 200-meter dash.

Many colleges wanted David to play for them. He chose to join the Florida State Seminoles team. He played under the famous coach Bobby Bowden.

College Football Career

David Warren played college football for the Florida State Seminoles from 1997 to 2000.

Freshman Year (1997)

In his first year, David played in 11 out of 12 games. He was a backup defensive end and played on special teams. He made 16 tackles that season. In his very first college game against Maryland, he got his first sack. He also had five tackles in a game against Duke. David helped Florida State win the 1998 Sugar Bowl against Ohio State, where he made two tackles.

Sophomore Year (1998)

As a sophomore, David became a more important part of the defense. He finished the year with 30 tackles. This included five tackles that stopped the opposing team from gaining yards. He also had three sacks and broke up one pass. His best game was against Southern California, where he had four tackles, one sack, and forced a fumble.

Junior Year (1999)

In his junior year, David played in every game. He started five games, including the National Championship game. He ended the season with 32 tackles and two sacks. He also caused three fumbles, which was tied for the most on his team. David led all defensive linemen with four passes broken up.

Professional Football Career

After college, David Warren pursued a career in professional football.

NFL Teams

David was not chosen in the 2001 NFL draft. However, he signed with the Indianapolis Colts as a free agent in April 2001. He was released later that year but re-signed with the Colts in January 2002. He was released again in August 2002.

In January 2003, David joined the practice squad for the Oakland Raiders during the playoffs. He was released by the Raiders in June 2003. He did not play in any regular season NFL games.

Canadian Football League

Later in 2003, David Warren played in two games for the BC Lions. This team is part of the Canadian Football League (CFL).

Personal Life

David Warren experienced a head injury as a teenager. This injury required a metal plate to be placed in his forehead.