The Denver Broncos mourned the death of wide receiver Kenny McKinley Monday, September 19th, after he was found dead in his home. The police were summoned to McKinley's home by a female friend who had returned from an errand with his child. There they found his body in the second-floor bedroom where he lay dead from a self-inflicted gunshot. The police are still investigating the situation and refused to comment on whether or not a suicide note had been found (ESPN). McKinley had just returned home with his young son after visiting his home in Atlanta (The Associated Press). .
As a second-year pro, McKinley had little time to make a huge impact on the field, playing in only eight games as a rookie in 2009, mostly on special teams, and being moved to the team's injured reserve list after suffering a leg injury the next year. The Broncos coach Josh McDaniels said, "Kenny had a promising future on the football field, but more importantly, he was a great teammate whose smile and personality could light up the room. This is a tragic loss for our football team, and his family is in all of our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time" (The Associated Press). Team owner, Pat Bowlen, released a statement saying, "Everyone with the Broncos is shocked and saddened by the loss of Kenny McKinley. He was part of the Broncos' family and will be greatly missed by our organization. My most heartfelt condolences go out to Kenny's family and friends" (ESPN). .
However, he made quite the impact at the University of South Carolina, where he was drafted in the fifth round in 2009. At South Carolina, he still holds the title of all-time leading receiver with 207 catches for 2,781 yards. Recently, he returned to South Carolina to watch them beat Georgia 17-6. During his visit, coach Steve Spurrier recalls that he "had a wonderful smile just like he always did" (The Associated Press). .
Andrew Bondarowicz, McKinley's agent, also failed to see any warning signs of depression in McKinley in their conversation during the previous week.