DE Ty Warren has better things to do with his time than go and train with the New England Patriots this off-season. In fact, he's leaving $250,000 on the table in order to stay away from the team. He's staying in Texas for a while longer and training alone. Sounds pretty bad, doesn't it?
Until you know the reasons. Warren is staying in Texas this summer, his first summer away from the Patriots, to complete his degree. He'll be training in the morning at Texas A&M and will be taking classes later in the day. He believes that getting a degree is more important than collecting that $250,000 because he's setting an example for not only his children, but for children everywhere with aspirations for becoming successful.
"I try to put the kids in the best educational system possible and I think there is something to be said for their father, who has been blessed to play in the NFL and do something he's loved to do, going back and finishing what he started," Warren said from the campus of Texas A&M. "In the big picture, I think it's important for me to do what I'm doing. I can sacrifice that bonus for that."
You'll probably be seeing this quote everywhere- and often. He's such a high quality character that I hope all our young players look up to. So often we hear about players allowing their fortune to get to their head, that when a quality veteran like Ty Warren takes the time out of his career to go back school, more people should take notice.
In fact, some fan posters on Football Outsiders came up with a great idea. As a sign of acknowledgment and, hopefully, support, for Ty Warren's positive act, the Patriots should donate that $250,000 to create a scholarship fund, possibly for student athletes, promoting athletes staying in school and receiving a full education.
Oh, and if you're worried about his work ethic or his training tailing off due to his studies?
"Working out has never been a problem of mine, I do it regardless. I'm self-motivated," he said. "I've always been a working person. Ask anyone who knows me, I've been working and supporting my two siblings and now my own family since I was 13. No matter how much I have in the bank account, I'll always work."
I wouldn't worry about that.
So congratulations to Ty Warren for making a decision that should leave a positive mark upon Patriots fans everywhere. Congratulations for setting a positive example for your children.
Good luck getting that degree.