Keith Browner Sr., a standout football player at the University of Southern California who went on to play five seasons in the NFL, has passed away. TMZ Sports has learned that Keith died Tuesday morning in San Leandro, California, according to his son, Keith Browner Jr.
The family describes his death as unexpected and sudden, and they are shocked by the loss. While the exact cause of death remains unclear, it appears he suffered a heart attack. Keith Jr. shared that he spoke with his father on Monday night, during which Keith Sr. mentioned he was experiencing stomach problems, was throwing up, feeling tired, and planned to go to the hospital Tuesday morning.
On Tuesday morning, Keith Sr. was reportedly getting ready to visit the hospital for a check-up when he suddenly curled over the side of a chair and collapsed to the floor next to his girlfriend.
Keith Browner Sr. was a key player on the USC defense in the 1980s. He was drafted 30th overall in the 1984 NFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Throughout his professional career, he played linebacker and defensive end for five seasons from 1984 to 1988, suiting up for the Buccaneers, San Francisco 49ers, Oakland Raiders, and San Diego Chargers.
His son, Keith Browner Jr., followed in his footsteps, playing college football at Cal as a defensive end before spending four years in the NFL with the Houston Texans and Chicago Bears.
Keith Browner Sr. is survived by his five children: his son Keith Jr. and daughters Keicha, Amber, Ashley, and Jordan. He was 63 years old.
The football community mourns the loss of a talented athlete and beloved family man.
https://www.tmz.com/2025/11/04/former-nfl-player-keith-browner-sr-dead-dies/