Last Updated on November 7, 2026 by Mariah Miranda
Kevin Winston Jr. is an American professional football player who plays as a safety for the Tennessee Titans in the National Football League (NFL). Born on December 2, 2003, in Cheverly, Maryland, Winston grew up in Columbia, Maryland, before developing into a talented defensive player at Penn State University.
Beyond football, Kevin Winston Jr. comes from a family with strong connections to athletics and education. His parents are Kevin Winston Sr. and Natasha Winston, while his younger sister is named Khloe Winston.
Winston has also publicly identified his girlfriend as Kiarah Dandridge, a former college basketball player who competed at St. Bonaventure University and Radford University.
His father, a former James Madison University football player and educator, has played an especially important role in his athletic development, providing encouragement and guidance from childhood through his transition into the NFL.
Kevin Winston Jr.’s Girlfriend: Who Is Kiarah Dandridge?
Kevin Winston Jr.’s girlfriend is Kiarah Dandridge, also known as Kirah Dandridge, a former college basketball player.
Her identity was officially confirmed in the Tennessee Titans’ 2025 NFL Draft questionnaire, where Winston listed Dandridge as his girlfriend.
The questionnaire provides direct evidence of their relationship, making it more reliable than speculative online dating reports.
Sports Illustrated also identified Dandridge as Winston’s romantic partner in an article originally published in September 2025 and updated in October 2026.
According to the publication, Winston and Dandridge have been publicly connected since approximately 2020.
The couple attended prom together and have occasionally expressed affection through social media interactions.
Sports Illustrated reported that Winston left affectionate comments on one of Dandridge’s early Instagram posts in 2020.
The relationship continued as both pursued demanding athletic careers at different universities.
While Winston developed into an outstanding safety at Penn State, Dandridge competed in NCAA Division I women’s basketball.
Their shared experience as college athletes represents an important connection between them.
Who Is Kiarah Dandridge?
Kiarah “Kirah” Dandridge is an American former college basketball player from Richmond, Virginia.
According to her official Radford University Athletics biography, she played as a guard and stood 5 feet 10 inches tall.
Before entering college, Dandridge attended Riverdale Baptist School and New Hope Academy in Maryland.
She began her NCAA Division I basketball career at St. Bonaventure University, where she played during the 2022-23 and 2023-24 seasons.
During her sophomore season, she appeared in 30 games, making ten starts and averaging 26.4 minutes per appearance.
She later transferred to Radford University, joining the Highlanders for the 2024-25 season.
At Radford, Dandridge became an important contributor, particularly because of her defensive abilities and rebounding.
During the 2025-26 season, she appeared in all 36 games and made 25 starts.
She recorded 58 steals, ranking second on the team, and earned College Sports Communicators Academic All-District recognition.
Her achievements demonstrated her commitment to both academic and athletic development.
Sports Illustrated’s October 2026 coverage continued to identify Dandridge and Winston as a couple.
Is Kevin Winston Jr. Married?
There is no reliable public confirmation that Kevin Winston Jr. is married.
His official 2025 Tennessee Titans draft questionnaire identifies Kiarah Dandridge as his girlfriend rather than his wife.
Sports Illustrated also described Dandridge as his romantic partner in October 2026 without reporting a marriage.
No trustworthy public source reviewed has established that the couple has held a wedding ceremony.
Therefore, Dandridge is best described as Winston’s girlfriend rather than his wife.
Kevin Winston Jr.’s Children
There is no verified public information confirming that Kevin Winston Jr. has children.
Although the Tennessee Titans safety has publicly identified his girlfriend and discussed his family relationships, he has not confirmed having any sons or daughters in reliable interviews.
His official NFL player biography and draft questionnaire do not establish that he is a father.
Consequently, it would be inaccurate to claim that Winston has children or provide names and birth dates without supporting evidence.
Kevin Winston Jr.’s Parents
Kevin Winston Jr. was born to Kevin Winston Sr. and Natasha Winston, according to his official Tennessee Titans and Penn State University biographies.
Both parents are documented members of his family, although his father has received more attention in interviews because of his background in college football and education.
Kevin Winston Sr. – Kevin Winston Jr.’s Father
Kevin Winston Sr. is the father of Tennessee Titans safety Kevin Winston Jr., a former college football player and school administrator.
He played football for four seasons at James Madison University, where he was part of the program that won the NCAA Division I-AA national championship in 2004.
His athletic background introduced his son to football from an early age.
In an April 2025 interview with DC News Now, Winston Jr. recalled spending time around football fields while his father was still playing at James Madison.
He explained that seeing football during his earliest childhood years helped him develop a natural interest in the sport.
Winston Sr. subsequently pursued a career in education.
According to the Washington Jesuit Academy’s official staff biography, he worked as dean of students for four years before becoming vice principal and later principal.
The Washington, D.C., school emphasizes education, mentorship, character development, and supporting young students.
Winston Sr. has applied similar values to his son’s upbringing, emphasizing personal responsibility, discipline, and consistent effort.
How Kevin Winston Sr. Influenced His Son’s Football Career
Kevin Winston Sr. played an important role in developing his son’s football abilities.
According to a feature originally published by the Reading Eagle in August 2024, Winston Jr. initially struggled with tackling when he began playing organized football.
At approximately seven years old, he was afraid of the physical contact associated with bringing opponents to the ground.
Instead of tackling ball carriers directly, he sometimes attempted to jump onto their backs.
His father, who also coached him, recognized the problem and encouraged him to overcome his fear.
Winston Sr. taught his son to approach tackling with greater confidence and physical commitment.
After successfully making a strong tackle, Kevin Jr. realized that the experience was less intimidating than he had expected.
He subsequently developed into one of the most physical defensive players in his age group.
The experience illustrated how his father’s encouragement helped him improve both mentally and physically.
Winston Sr. also influenced his son’s educational decisions.
During the college recruiting process, the family carefully evaluated the programs interested in Kevin Jr.
The younger Winston eventually chose Penn State because he believed the coaching staff offered an honest assessment of his abilities and opportunities.
His father’s advice helped him understand the importance of selecting a program where he could develop through competition rather than expect immediate playing time.
Kevin Winston Sr.’s Support During His Son’s Knee Injury
One of the most important examples of Kevin Winston Sr.’s influence occurred during his son’s recovery from a serious knee injury in 2024.
Winston Jr. suffered an ACL injury early in Penn State’s season, forcing him to miss most of his junior campaign.
The setback was particularly disappointing because he had entered the season as one of the country’s leading defensive prospects.
During his introductory Tennessee Titans press conference on April 25, 2025, Winston discussed the advice his father provided throughout rehabilitation.
Kevin Sr. encouraged him to focus on what he could control and approach recovery with the same determination he had previously applied to football training.
Rather than becoming discouraged by the injury, Winston Jr. committed himself to physical rehabilitation and continued supporting his teammates.
He explained that his father’s guidance helped him develop the mental toughness required to overcome the setback.
The experience strengthened their relationship and helped prepare him for the challenges of professional football.
Natasha Winston – Kevin Winston Jr.’s Mother
Natasha Winston is Kevin Winston Jr.’s mother.
Her identity is confirmed in official football biographies published by the Tennessee Titans and Penn State University.
Natasha is also identified alongside her husband in the Titans’ 2025 NFL Draft questionnaire.
Although she is a documented member of the player’s family, detailed information about her occupation, education, and personal background has not been widely published in major sports media.
Public reporting about Winston’s development has generally concentrated on his father’s college football background and involvement in his athletic training.
However, both parents were identified as members of the family who supported his transition from high school football to Penn State.
Without additional verified information, it would be inappropriate to speculate about Natasha’s professional life or other private circumstances.
Kevin Winston Jr.’s Siblings
Kevin Winston Jr. has one publicly identified sibling, a younger sister named Khloe Winston.
Her name appears in the official Tennessee Titans and Penn State football biographies.
Khloe Winston – Younger Sister
Khloe Winston is the younger sister of Tennessee Titans safety Kevin Winston Jr.
Her full name and relationship to the NFL player were confirmed in the Titans’ 2025 draft questionnaire.
The document specifically identified Khloe as Winston’s little sister.
Although she is officially identified, information about her age, education, athletic interests, and personal life has not been widely reported.
She has generally remained outside the professional sports spotlight.
No additional brothers or sisters were named in Winston’s official NFL and college football biographies.
Kevin Winston Jr.’s Grandfather and Uncle
In addition to his parents and younger sister, Kevin Winston Jr. has publicly discussed other relatives who have influenced his life.
His Paternal Grandfather
Kevin Winston Jr. shared a close relationship with his paternal grandfather, according to his official Tennessee Titans draft questionnaire.
The document revealed that his grandfather died shortly before a Penn State football game against Michigan State.
Winston identified the loss as one of the most difficult personal experiences he had faced.
He explained that his grandfather, father, and himself had maintained a particularly close relationship.
The questionnaire did not provide his grandfather’s name or exact date of death.
Nevertheless, the family loss was important enough for Winston to mention it when discussing the greatest challenges of his life.
His Uncle – Kevin Winston Sr.’s Twin Brother
Kevin Winston Jr. also has an uncle who is the fraternal twin brother of his father.
According to his Tennessee Titans draft questionnaire, Winston Sr. and his twin brother look remarkably similar despite being fraternal rather than identical twins.
Winston identified the resemblance as an interesting fact about his family.
However, his uncle’s name, occupation, and personal background were not disclosed in the questionnaire.
Kevin Winston Jr.’s Childhood and Family Background
Kevin Dwayne Winston Jr. was born on December 2, 2003, in Cheverly, Maryland.
He grew up in Columbia, Maryland, where football became an important part of his childhood.
His father’s background at James Madison University gave him early exposure to competitive athletics.
Winston attended Washington Jesuit Academy in Washington, D.C., before continuing his education at DeMatha Catholic High School in Hyattsville, Maryland.
At DeMatha, he became one of the school’s most accomplished defensive players.
During his high school career, Winston earned recognition as a two-time team captain and two-time team Most Valuable Player.
As a senior in 2021, he recorded 50 tackles, three interceptions, ten passes defended, and a fumble recovery returned for a touchdown.
He also blocked two field goals and contributed five touchdowns.
His performances earned him All-Met Defensive Player of the Year recognition from The Washington Post and first-team All-Washington Catholic Athletic Conference honors.
Winston also participated in track and field, competing in the 400-meter event.
His achievements attracted scholarship interest from major college football programs.
He ultimately chose Penn State University, where he enrolled in 2022.
Kevin Winston Jr.’s College Football Career
Winston played college football at Penn State University from 2022 through 2024.
During his freshman season, he appeared in 12 games and recorded 16 tackles.
He became a full-time starting safety in 2023, appearing in all 13 games.
According to Penn State Athletics, Winston recorded a team-leading 60 tackles, an interception, two fumble recoveries, and five passes defended that season.
His performance earned him honorable mention All-Big Ten recognition.
He entered the 2024 season as one of the leading defensive prospects in college football.
Winston opened the season with an impressive performance against West Virginia, recording 12 tackles and a forced fumble.
He was subsequently named Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week.
Unfortunately, a knee injury early in the season forced him to miss most of the remaining games.
Despite the setback, Winston remained involved with the team and continued supporting his teammates from the sideline.
He later declared for the 2025 NFL Draft, believing he was prepared to compete at the professional level.
Kevin Winston Jr.’s NFL Career and Family Support
The Tennessee Titans selected Kevin Winston Jr. in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft with the 82nd overall pick.
The selection fulfilled a childhood ambition that he had pursued with guidance from his father.
During his introductory press conference, Winston expressed appreciation for the people who helped him develop as a player and person.
He particularly emphasized his father’s influence during his college recruitment and recovery from injury.
Winston signed his rookie contract with Tennessee in May 2025.
During his rookie season, he gradually earned a starting role in the Titans’ defensive secondary.
According to his official Tennessee Titans biography, he appeared in ten games and recorded 32 tackles, one sack, five quarterback pressures, four tackles for loss, and two passes defended.
He continued developing as a safety with Tennessee during the 2026 season.
Outside football, Winston enjoys competitive video games, swimming, and riding bicycles.
He also owns an American Bulldog named Kaya, according to his draft questionnaire.
His interest in supporting young people reflects another personal value documented by the Titans.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kevin Winston Jr.’s Family
Who is Kevin Winston Jr.’s girlfriend?
Kevin Winston Jr.’s girlfriend is Kiarah Dandridge, also known as Kirah Dandridge. Their relationship was officially confirmed in the Titans’ 2025 draft questionnaire and reported again by Sports Illustrated in October 2026.
Who is Kiarah Dandridge?
Kiarah Dandridge is a former NCAA Division I basketball guard who played for St. Bonaventure University and Radford University. She is from Richmond, Virginia.
Is Kevin Winston Jr. married?
There is no reliable public confirmation that Kevin Winston Jr. is married. His publicly identified romantic partner is Kiarah Dandridge.
Does Kevin Winston Jr. have children?
There are no publicly verified reports confirming that Kevin Winston Jr. has children.
Who is Kevin Winston Jr.’s father?
His father is Kevin Winston Sr., a former James Madison University football player who became an educator and school principal.
Who is Kevin Winston Jr.’s mother?
His mother is Natasha Winston, whose identity is confirmed by the Tennessee Titans and Penn State University Athletics.
Does Kevin Winston Jr. have siblings?
Yes. Kevin Winston Jr. has a younger sister named Khloe Winston.
Who is Kevin Winston Jr.’s sister?
His younger sister is Khloe Winston, whose name is confirmed in his official Tennessee Titans draft questionnaire.
Did Kevin Winston Jr.’s father play football?
Yes. Kevin Winston Sr. played college football at James Madison University for four seasons and was part of the school’s 2004 national championship team.
What does Kevin Winston Jr.’s father do?
Kevin Winston Sr. is an educator who has served as dean of students, vice principal, and principal at Washington Jesuit Academy in Washington, D.C.
Did Kevin Winston Jr. lose his grandfather?
Yes. His paternal grandfather died before a Penn State game against Michigan State. Winston identified the loss as one of the most difficult personal experiences of his life.
Does Kevin Winston Jr. have a twin brother?
No. His official biography identifies a younger sister, Khloe. His father, however, has a fraternal twin brother who reportedly looks remarkably similar to him.
Where did Kevin Winston Jr. grow up?
Kevin Winston Jr. grew up in Columbia, Maryland, and attended DeMatha Catholic High School in Hyattsville before joining Penn State.
When did Kevin Winston Jr. join the Tennessee Titans?
The Tennessee Titans selected Kevin Winston Jr. in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft with the 82nd overall pick.
Mariah Miranda is a dedicated sports journalist specializing in comprehensive NFL coverage, playbook strategy, and team analytics. From offseason Draft planning and free-agency moves to weekly matchup breakdowns and playoff pushes, she delivers clear, data-driven analysis of every division in the league. Driven by a deep understanding of football tactics and locker-room dynamics, Mariah brings fans closer to the gridiron with sharp commentary and player updates.
