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Who was Kenny McKinley?
Kenny McKinley was a professional football player who played as a wide receiver and a return specialist for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League (NFL). He was drafted by the Broncos in the fifth round of the 2009 NFL Draft. He played college football at the University of South Carolina, where he set school records for receptions and receiving yards. He was born on January 31, 1987, in Mableton, Georgia, and attended South Cobb High School, where he played as a quarterback. He was a son, a father, a brother, and a friend to many people.
How did Kenny McKinley die?
Kenny McKinley died on September 20, 2010, at the age of 23, in his home in Centennial, Colorado. The cause of death was a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head, which was ruled as a suicide by the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office. According to the sheriff’s report, McKinley had been depressed and had made previous statements about killing himself. He had also been in debt and had been struggling with his recovery from a knee injury that ended his rookie season and required a second surgery in August 2010.
What were Kenny McKinley’s achievements?
Kenny McKinley had a successful career as a football player, both in college and in the NFL. In college, he was a first-team All-SEC selection in 2007 and a second-team All-SEC selection in 2008. He finished his career as the fifth SEC player in history to catch more than 200 passes and as the all-time leader in receptions and receiving yards at South Carolina. He also had four 100-yard receiving games and 19 touchdown catches in his college career.
In the NFL, he played eight games for the Broncos in 2009, mostly on special teams. He had seven kick returns for 158 yards and three punt returns for 32 yards. He showed potential as a receiver and a returner, but his career was cut short by his knee injury and his death.
How did the football world react to Kenny McKinley’s death?
Kenny McKinley’s death was met with shock and sorrow by the football world, especially by his former teammates, coaches, and fans. He was remembered as a talented and charismatic player, who had a bright future and a positive attitude. His former teammates, coaches, and fans shared their condolences and tributes on social media, using hashtags like #RIPKennyMcKinley and #BroncosCountry. Some of the notable messages were:
- “Kenny had a smile that could light up a room. He was a hard worker, a great teammate, and a joy to be around. He was always upbeat, always optimistic, always ready to play. He loved the game and he loved life. I’m devastated by his loss, but I know he’s in a better place. Rest in peace, Kenny. You will always be in our hearts.” – Josh McDaniels, Broncos head coach
- “Kenny was one of the best receivers I ever played with. He had a knack for making big plays, big catches, and big returns. He was a competitor and a leader, who always gave his best. He was also a great friend, who always had my back. I’m heartbroken by his passing, but I know he’s watching over us. I love you, Kenny. You will never be forgotten.” – Brandon Stokley, Broncos wide receiver
- “Kenny was more than a teammate, he was a brother. We shared so many memories on and off the field. He was always there for me, always supportive, always funny. He was the best father to his son and the best friend to anyone who knew him. He was the strongest person I know, and I’m so proud of him for overcoming so many challenges. I miss him so much, but I know he’s at peace. I love you, Kenny. You will always be remembered.” – Eric Decker, Broncos wide receiver
How can we honor Kenny McKinley’s legacy?
Kenny McKinley’s legacy lives on through his family, friends, and the football community. He was a football player who had a passion and a talent for the game. He was a son, a father, a brother, and a friend who brought joy and happiness to everyone around him. He was an inspiration to many people who are facing their own struggles, whether it’s injury, depression, or something else. He taught us to never give up, never lose hope, and always smile.
One way we can honor his legacy is by supporting his family and helping them with the expenses they faced during his funeral and after his death. A memorial fund was created by the Broncos on behalf of Kenny’s mother, Karen McKinley, to raise funds for Kenny’s funeral costs, his son’s education, and his family’s support. Any amount donated will be a blessing to Kenny’s family. If you are unable to donate, you can share his story and the link to the memorial fund so we can get the word out to as many people as possible.
Another way we can honor his legacy is by raising awareness and prevention of suicide, which is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States. According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, suicide can be prevented by knowing the risk factors, warning signs, and resources for help. Some of the ways to prevent and help someone who is suicidal are:
- Recognizing the risk factors, such as mental illness, substance abuse, chronic pain, financial stress, isolation, trauma, or loss
- Recognizing the warning signs, such as talking about suicide, feeling hopeless, withdrawing from others, giving away possessions, or showing mood swings
- Reaching out to the person, expressing concern, listening without judgment, asking about their suicidal thoughts, and encouraging them to seek professional help
- Calling the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255, which is available 24/7, or texting TALK to 741741, which is a free, confidential, and crisis text line
- Staying with the person until they are safe, removing any lethal means, and following up with them regularly
Kenny McKinley was a remarkable man who left a lasting impact on the world. He was a football player who played with passion and skill. He was a loving son, father, brother, and friend who touched many lives and hearts. He was a football legend and a football hero. He was Kenny McKinley. And we will always remember him.
