Tragic Loss of Dallas Cowboys Player Marshawn Kneeland
The Dallas Cowboys organization and football community are mourning the tragic loss of defensive end Marshawn Kneeland, who died at age 24 on November 6, 2025. The team has established a memorial fund to support his pregnant girlfriend, Catalina Mancera, and their unborn child.
Memorial Fund for Kneeland's Legacy
During a Wednesday news conference, Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer announced the creation of the Marshawn Kneeland Memorial Fund, dedicated to preserving the player's legacy and providing financial security for his surviving partner and unborn heir. "The organization has been amazing," Schottenheimer told reporters. "We've started the Marshawn Kneeland Memorial Fund where we can all give and support Catalina. She's pregnant, and so we want to make sure she's taken care of and the baby's taken care of for the rest of their lives."
The coach revealed he had spoken with Mancera the previous night, noting that Kneeland frequently used the phrase "One love" and emphasizing the importance of love during the grieving process. Schottenheimer described Kneeland as having a "playful spirit" and a smile that "could take you to your knees," praising his exceptional work ethic and discipline.
Circumstances Surrounding the Tragedy
Kneeland's death occurred under heartbreaking circumstances. According to reports, the athlete fled a police traffic stop in his vehicle on November 6. Texas Department of Public Safety and Frisco police officials stated they lost sight of his car, which he subsequently crashed before fleeing on foot.
Approximately three hours after the automobile accident, authorities found Kneeland deceased from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. People magazine obtained audio recordings revealing that Mancera had warned police about Kneeland's mental health history, telling them he was armed and that "He will end it all."
Mancera expressed her profound grief on social media, writing on Facebook: "My sweet baby, words could never express how broken I feel, you're my everything. I'll love you forever my beautiful angel," alongside a photograph of the couple together.
Team Support and Moving Forward
The Cowboys organization has made grief specialists available to support players and staff affected by the tragedy. Schottenheimer acknowledged the profound impact on the team, stating: "My heart is heavy. Our team's heart is heavy. We don't move on, but we do move forward."
The coach emphasized his commitment to expressing love and care for his players more openly in the future, noting that the experience has permanently changed him. The memorial fund represents the team's dedication to honoring Kneeland's memory while providing practical support for his growing family.
If you or someone you know needs mental health support, resources are available through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988, or visiting 988lifeline.org. Additional local mental health resources can be found at dontcallthepolice.com, with international support available through the International Association for Suicide Prevention.
