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Who was Justin Winslow?
Justin K.B. Winslow was the son of Hall of Fame tight end Kellen Winslow Sr. and the brother of former NFL player Kellen Winslow II. He was born on June 6, 1983, and grew up in San Diego, California. He attended Scripps Ranch High School, where he played football and basketball. He graduated in 2001 and enrolled at the University of Missouri, where he studied business administration.
How did Justin Winslow die?
Justin Winslow died suddenly on October 12, 2006, at the age of 23. According to a statement released by the family, he was found unconscious by his mother, Dawnn Wimes O’Bannon, at her home in Kansas City, Missouri. He was unresponsive with a weak pulse. Justin Winslow was taken by ambulance to a hospital but couldn’t be revived and died. A family spokeswoman said the cause of death would not be known until toxicology tests are completed.
What was the reaction to Justin Winslow’s death?
Justin Winslow’s death was a shock and a tragedy for his family and friends. His father, Kellen Winslow Sr., attended his funeral on October 17, 2006, in Kansas City, along with his brother, Kellen Winslow II, who was then playing for the Cleveland Browns. His mother, Dawnn Wimes O’Bannon, said in a statement that Justin was “a loving son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend” who had “a bright future ahead of him”. She also thanked everyone for their prayers and support.
Justin Winslow’s death also saddened the football community, especially those who knew him personally or played with him. His former high school coach, Sergio Diaz, said Justin was “a great kid” who was “always smiling and always positive”. His former college teammate, Brad Smith, said Justin was “a good person” who was “fun to be around”. His former NFL brother, Kellen Winslow II, said Justin was “a great brother” who was “always there for me”. He also said Justin was “a big inspiration” for him to play football.
How did Justin Winslow’s death affect his family?
Justin Winslow’s death was a devastating blow for his family, especially his father and brother, who both suffered from brain and nervous system injuries from their NFL careers. Kellen Winslow Sr. filed a workers compensation case in early 2018, claiming to have sustained “repetitive traumas to his head resulting in cognitive and behavioral disorders”. He underwent extensive examinations as part of this claim, with one doctor attributing his complaints of headaches and cognitive disorder to his football career since high school. Winslow Sr. also complained of significant depression and anxiety, as well as problems with his memory. A scan of his brain “suggested evidence of organic brain damage”, according to one report. He reached a $24,750 settlement with the NFL in June 2021, to avoid the costs and risks of further litigation.
Kellen Winslow II also faced mental and legal problems after his NFL career ended in 2013. He was arrested several times for various offenses, including burglary, indecent exposure, and rape. He pleaded guilty in 2020 to rape and other sex crimes against five women and was sentenced to 14 years in prison. His attorneys argued that he suffered from brain damage and mental illness due to his football career, and that he was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. He also said he was “very sorry” for his actions and that he was “a very sick man”.
Conclusion
Justin Winslow’s cause of death remains unknown, but his life and legacy are remembered by his family and friends. He was a young man who had a passion for sports and a bright future ahead of him. He was also a loving son, brother, and friend who touched many lives. His death was a tragic loss for the Winslow family, who have endured many hardships and challenges. They have also shown resilience and courage in the face of adversity. Justin Winslow’s cause of death may never be revealed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
