Yes, that would qualify as a special circumstance, but as someone brought up earlier, being a football player could also be considered a special circumstance, and let's be honest... do you really think the admissions office is going to give extra consideration to a football recruit? I don't think the administration would be too happy about that.
I know I came across a bit harsh. That was probably not the way I should have worded things, but i'm tired of academic non-qualifiers. I know DK has had more hardship than anyone should have to bear at his age. My point is, why weren't his grades better in his first three years? Get the job done, guys.
Personally, I don't think this was handled well, but the university can't lower its standards... not when they're working so hard to bolster their--and thus, OUR--reputation.