The Warren Lumberjacks are looking forward to getting some familiar faces back on the field as they prepare for the final two weeks of the 2026 regular season.
Head Coach Bo Hembree said during this week’s edition of The Johnny’s Radiator and More Bo Show that wideout Zaydin Grider is expected to return for Friday’s road game against Watson Chapel, while fellow senior receiver Josiah Steen is anticipated to be available the following week following an injury earlier this season.
The potential returns offer an encouraging development for a Warren offense that has relied heavily on younger players throughout much of the season.
Hembree explained that injuries to experienced receivers have created opportunities for several sophomores to take on significant roles. Those players have gained valuable Friday night experience while helping the Lumberjacks navigate a challenging conference schedule.
The coach believes getting some of the team’s experienced players back will benefit the entire offensive unit.
Warren entered the season with three returning starters at receiver, but injuries have significantly changed the makeup of that group throughout the fall.
The expected returns of Grider and Steen could provide additional options in the passing game while complementing the experience younger receivers have gained in their absence.
Hembree also believes Steen’s presence could create opportunities for other offensive players by giving opposing defenses another established receiving threat to account for.
The coach said the anticipation of getting teammates back has already helped improve the atmosphere surrounding the program.
With Grider returning and Steen practicing again, Hembree described an increase in the team’s enthusiasm and excitement.
While acknowledging that it remains to be seen how the changes will translate to game action, Hembree expressed optimism about the depth Warren has developed over the course of the season.
“We got a lot of guys who can play,” Hembree said.
He noted that several underclassmen now have considerable varsity experience, giving the coaching staff additional options even as experienced players return to the lineup.
Warren has demonstrated its offensive potential at various points this season, including a 49-21 victory at Star City on October 16 in which the Lumberjacks produced 572 yards of total offense, according to unofficial statistics reported after the game.
The coach emphasized that the team must continue working toward consistent execution as the season progresses.
“Now we got to be more consistent,” Hembree said.
With two regular-season games remaining, Warren hopes the combination of returning experience and continued development will help the Lumberjacks finish strong.
Warren enters Friday’s game against Watson Chapel with a 4-4 overall record and a 3-2 mark in 8-4A Conference play.
Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. in Pine Bluff.
