NFL, Dallas Cowboys react to the passing of running back Marion Barber
Following the news of his tragic death on Wednesday, the Dallas Cowboys organization released a memorial statement about Marion Barber III. Barber was found dead in his apartment home at the age of 38, just ten years since his retirement from the NFL. The NFL and the Cowboys were among countless fans sharing their memories and love for the former Dallas star.
Dallas Cowboys on Marion Barber’s passing
“We are heartbroken by the tragic death of Marion Barber III,” read Dallas’ statement. “Marion was an old-school, hard-nosed football player who ran with the will to win every down. He had a passion for the game and love for his coaches and teammates. Our hearts go out to Marion’s family and friends during this difficult time.”
The NFL world learned of Barber’s death shortly after police found him in his apartment home on Wednesday. According to initial reports, there was no word on the cause of death at this time. When reached out to for information, a Frisco police spokesperson told the Fort Worth Star-Telegram that officers responded on a welfare concern and that they were unable to provide any further information at this time.
Barber played for the Cowboys for six seasons and earned Pro Bowl honors in 2007 after rushing for 975 yards and 10 touchdowns as the team’s second back. Barber was just 38 years old, with his birthday upcoming on June 10. He retired from the NFL after seven years with 4,780 rushing yards and 53 rushing touchdowns. After his six years with Dallas, he played one season with the Chicago Bears and rushed for 422 yards and six touchdowns.
The former star running back from Minnesota was selected in the fourth round of the 2005 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys.
Since his retirement from the NFL, Barber has struggled with a series of post-career incidents — including being detained in 2014 and placed in a hospital for a mental health evaluation. Barber was also arrested in 2019 for misdemeanor counts of criminal mischief after an incident where he was alleged to have damaged two vehicles.
At this time there are no details made public regarding the circumstances of his death.