Warren Christopher McClendon Jr. Bio
Warren Christopher McClendon Jr. (born April 11, 2001) is an American professional football offensive tackle for the Los Angeles Rams of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Georgia Bulldogs, where he developed into one of the most dominant offensive linemen in the Southeastern Conference. McClendon was selected by the Los Angeles Rams in the fifth round of the 2023 NFL Draft with the 174th overall pick. Known for his physicality and consistency at the tackle position, he brings championship pedigree from his time in Athens, Georgia.
Early Life and Background
McClendon grew up in Brunswick, Georgia. He attended Frederica Academy during middle school before moving on to Brunswick High School, where his football abilities began to attract significant attention from college programs across the country. His early development in the sport laid the foundation for what would become a highly decorated high school career.
At Brunswick High School, McClendon established himself as a premier offensive tackle prospect. His performance on the field earned him a four-star recruiting rating, placing him among the top prospects in his class. His combination of size, footwork, and football intelligence made him an attractive target for major college programs seeking to bolster their offensive lines.
Path to American Football
McClendon received scholarship offers from numerous Power Five conference schools, but he ultimately decided to commit to play college football at the University of Georgia. This decision aligned him with one of the premier football programs in the country and set him on a trajectory toward both collegiate and professional success.
His commitment to Georgia proved to be a pivotal moment in his development as a player. The Bulldogs’ offensive line development system and their consistent presence among the nation’s top teams provided McClendon with the platform he needed to showcase his talents against the best competition in college football.
Warren Christopher McClendon Jr. Career
College Career (2019–2022)
McClendon began his collegiate career with the Georgia Bulldogs in 2019. He played during his true freshman season before utilizing a redshirt year to further develop his skills and adapt to the speed and complexity of college football. This redshirt season proved valuable for his long-term development within the program.
As a redshirt freshman, McClendon broke into the starting lineup and made an immediate impact. He started nine of Georgia’s ten games at offensive tackle, demonstrating the consistency and physicality that would come to define his game. His performance earned him recognition as a Freshman All-American by the Football Writers Association of America, solidifying his status as a rising talent in the SEC.
Georgia Breakthrough (2022)
The 2022 season represented McClendon’s breakout campaign as a key member of Georgia’s offensive line. He started all 15 of Georgia’s games at right tackle during a remarkable season that saw the Bulldogs capture the College Football Playoff National Championship. His performance throughout the season, including the playoff victories, showcased his ability to perform at the highest levels of college football.
McClendon’s consistency and dominance earned him first-team All-Southeastern Conference honors as a redshirt junior. However, his 2022 season was cut short when he suffered a knee injury during the SEC Championship Game. The injury forced him to miss the Peach Bowl, a setback that added urgency to his preparations for the 2023 NFL Draft.
Los Angeles Rams Era (2023–Present)
McClendon declared for the 2023 NFL Draft following his junior season at Georgia. He was selected by the Los Angeles Rams in the fifth round with the 174th overall pick, fulfilling his dream of playing professional football. The Rams acquired his draft rights and immediately added him to their offensive line depth chart.
As a rookie during the 2023 season, McClendon appeared in six games for the Rams. His transition from the college game to the NFL required adjustments in technique and physicality, but his foundational skills from Georgia provided him with a solid framework for development. He worked primarily as a backup and special teams contributor during his first professional season.
Playing Style and Strengths
McClendon stands at 6 feet 4 inches and plays with the physical demeanor required of an NFL offensive tackle. His experience at Georgia, particularly during two national championship runs, provided him with extensive experience in high-pressure situations. His footwork and balance at the edge position allow him to handle speed rushers effectively, while his strength enables him to anchor against power players in the trenches.
Notable Events and Milestones
McClendon’s career has been marked by significant achievements at every level. His selection as a Freshman All-American, combined with his first-team All-SEC recognition, demonstrates his sustained excellence throughout his college career. The two College Football Playoff National Championships he helped secure represent the pinnacle of collegiate team success. His selection in the 2023 NFL Draft marked his official entry into professional football.
Warren Christopher McClendon Jr. Career Statistics
McClendon has established himself as a capable NFL player through his appearances with the Los Angeles Rams. His professional statistics reflect his role as a developing player within the Rams’ offensive line rotation.
Professional Career Highlights
Through the 2024 NFL season, McClendon has appeared in 19 games with 5 starts for the Los Angeles Rams. His rookie season provided valuable experience, and he continued to earn playing time during his second professional season. The transition from college star to NFL contributor requires patience and continued development, both of which McClendon has demonstrated.
College Achievements
McClendon’s college career at Georgia stands as one of the most decorated in recent memory for an offensive tackle. His two national championships, Freshman All-American honors, and first-team All-SEC recognition place him among the elite offensive linemen to come out of the Georgia program in recent years.
| Competition | Games Played | Games Started |
|---|---|---|
| NFL (Los Angeles Rams) | 19 | 5 |
Warren Christopher McClendon Jr. Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
McClendon comes from a family with deep roots in football. His uncle, Willie McClendon, played running back at Georgia and later in the NFL for the Chicago Bears. This family connection to the University of Georgia provided Warren with a lifelong connection to the program that would eventually become his college home.
Personal Life
Football runs in the McClendon family beyond Warren and his uncle. His cousin, Bryan McClendon, also played at Georgia and for the Chicago Bears before transitioning to coaching. Bryan McClendon currently serves as the wide receivers coach for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He previously held positions as the Bulldogs’ passing game coordinator and wide receivers coach, continuing the family’s association with the Georgia football program. This multigenerational football legacy has provided Warren with valuable guidance and perspective throughout his journey in the sport.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season represents an important chapter in McClendon’s professional development. Entering his third NFL season, he continues to work toward a more significant role within the Los Angeles Rams’ offensive line. His experience from two seasons of game action has provided him with the physical and mental preparation needed to compete at the sport’s highest level.
McClendon’s progression within the Rams organization reflects the typical developmental arc for young offensive linemen in the NFL. The team has provided him with opportunities to refine his technique and earn additional playing time. His championship experience from Georgia continues to influence his approach to preparation and performance.