Broncos’ McKinley found dead in home

“It’s still part of our investigation and probably nothing we’ll talk about right now,’’ he said.

McKinley’s death is the latest in a series for tragedies for the Broncos in recent years. Cornerback Darrent Williams was slain in a drive-by shooting on New Year’s Day 2007, and three months later backup running back Damien Nash collapsed and died after a charity basketball game in St. Louis.

“Everyone with the Broncos is shocked and saddened by the loss of Kenny McKinley,’’ team owner Pat Bowlen said in a statement. “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.’’

The Broncos said coach Josh McDaniels would meet with the media today.

In a statement, 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.’’

McKinley was a second-year pro who was on the team’s injured reserve list because of a knee injury. He played in eight games as a rookie in 2009 with seven kick returns for 158 yards before going on injured reserve Dec. 29.

McKinley was a fifth-round draft choice out of South Carolina in 2009. He attended South Cobb High in Austell, Ga.

Clausen named starter

A day before his 23d birthday, Jimmy Clausen received a job promotion he seemed destined for since before he entered high school: NFL starting quarterback.

In a rapid ascension made possible by Matt Moore’s six turnovers and Carolina’s 0-2 start, Panthers coach John Fox announced the second-round pick from Notre Dame will start Sunday’s game against Cincinnati.

“I’ve dreamt it for my whole life, to be a starting quarterback in the National Football League,’’ said Clausen, who went unbeaten in high school and was one of the nation’s top college recruits before playing in the Notre Dame spotlight. “It’s real exciting, but at same time it’s a job. You’ve got to go prepare.’’