Athletes Making Headlines Off the Playing Field

Suicide is always a devastation but for a young man who seemingly has everything to live for the suicide of Denver Broncos wide receiver Kenny McKinley who was only 23 years old has left those who knew him and even those who did not shocked and dismayed.

McKinley was discovered at his home Monday after what appeared to be a “self-inflicted gunshot.” But because the investigation is ongoing suicide is only being looked at as the probability, but homicide has not been ruled out at this point and cannot be ruled out until the investigation is complete.

President and CEO of the Denver Broncos Pat Bowlen stated, "Everyone with the Broncos is shocked and saddened by the loss of Kenny McKinley."

In other news off the playing field, Braylon Edwards, the New York Jets Wide Receiver was charged with drunk driving after being pulled over in the wee hours of the morning because the windows of his Range Rover were “overly tinted.” After the police smelled alcohol and had Edwards take a breathalyzer, it was discovered at a reading of 0.16, Edwards was inebriated twice the legal state’s limit of 0.08.  

The NFL mandates that players who are found guilty of alcohol or drug offenses fall under the category of the substance abuse policy, not under the personal conduct policy.

The Jets’ GM Mike Tannenbaum reiterated in a statement that he was disappointed and that Edwards showed “poor judgment.” Disciplinary action has yet to be determined by the team.

According to the NFLs substance abuse policy, Edwards could be fined half a game or a max of $50,000, subject to random drug tests, counseling and reevaluation.

And in the world of College Football, Michigan State tight end Dion Sims has been accused of being a part of a theft ring who stole laptop computers from Detroit Public Schools valued at $158,000. The arrest was confirmed by Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy. Until the investigation is complete, athletic director Mark Hollis said Sims is suspended from the football team indefinitely.

It should be noted that Sims is charged with receiving and concealing stolen property.