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According to his son, former Houston Texans player Keith Browner Jr., the former linebacker and defensive end appeared to suffer a heart attack as he was preparing to go to the hospital. Browner Jr. told _TMZ Sports_ that he had spoken to his father the night before, and he complained of stomach pains, vomiting, and fatigue. “He said he was going to the hospital in the morning,” Browner Jr. shared. However, on Tuesday morning, Browner Sr. collapsed beside his girlfriend before he could leave for medical care.
 
Browner Sr. first rose to prominence as a defensive force for the USC Trojans in the early 1980s. His stellar college career led to his selection as the 30th overall pick in the 1984 NFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Over the course of five NFL seasons, he played for the Buccaneers, San Francisco 49ers, Oakland Raiders, and San Diego Chargers between 1984 and 1988.
 
After his NFL career, Browner continued his love for football, spending several years playing in the Arena Football League. Standing at 6-foot-6, he was known for his physical presence on the field and his commitment to the game.
 
Browner hailed from a family deeply rooted in football. His brother Ross Browner was a defensive end for the Cincinnati Bengals and Green Bay Packers, while another brother, Joey Browner, was among the NFL’s top safeties during the 1980s. Carrying on the family legacy, Keith Browner Jr. played college football at California and later had a four-year stint in the NFL with the Houston Texans and Chicago Bears.
 
Browner is survived by his five children — Keith Jr., Keicha, Amber, Ashley, and Jordan. His family remains in shock over his sudden passing, with Browner Jr. saying his father’s death was something they “never expected.”
 
The official cause of death has not yet been confirmed, but reports indicate that the 63-year-old former NFL player likely suffered a heart attack. His legacy as a devoted athlete and family man continues to be remembered by teammates, fans, and loved ones across the football community.