CLEVELAND (May 18, 2005) -- The Cleveland Browns finally know how much damage Kellen Winslow did to his right knee. Now, they can't say how badly he's hurt.
The club has not received authorization from Winslow or his family to disclose any of the injuries the tight end sustained when he crashed his motorcycle May 1, team spokesman Bill Bonsiewicz said.
Winslow underwent an MRI exam May 17 at the Cleveland Clinic. Doctors had been waiting for the swelling to go down before they could do further tests. The Browns received the results the next day but they can't release them to the public until Winslow or his representatives give them permission. Winslow could be waiting to get another medical opinion before disclosing the extent of his injury.
The club has braced itself for bad news on Winslow, who could miss the upcoming season. The former Miami star played in only two games as a rookie last season before breaking his right leg while trying to recover an onside kick in Week 2.
While riding his newly purchased motorcycle in a parking lot near his Westlake home, the 21-year-old Winslow was hurt when he slammed the high-powered bike into a curb and went flying over the handlebars.
He spent nine days in the hospital before being released.
Police have concluded their investigation of Winslow's accident and turned over their case to Westlake law director John Wheeler, who will determine whether charges should be filed, Lt. Ray Arcuri said.
Wheeler did not return a phone call seeking comment.
Police never interviewed Winslow about the accident because his attorney wanted to know the questions in advance, said Arcuri, who called the request "silly."
Winslow could be charged with reckless operation, which carries a maximum penalty of 30 days in jail and a $250 fine.
His use of a motorcycle violated standard NFL player contract language that prohibits players from engaging in dangerous activities. The Browns could require him to return millions of dollars in signing bonuses. The team has declined to comment on his contract.
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