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Cowboys HC Brian Schottenheimer reacts to loss of Marshawn Kneeland, offers condolences

Brian Jones Profile Picby: Brian Jones11/12/25brianjones_93
Brian Schottenheimer (2)
Oct 19, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer looks on during the third quarter of the game against the Washington Commanders at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

Dallas Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer shared his reaction to the death of Marshawn Kneeland. At the start of Wednesday’s press conference, Schottenheimer talked about the impact Kneeland made on the team.

“We had an opportunity last night to celebrate Marshawn’s life, tell some stories, share, laugh, cry,” Brian Schottenheimer said. “Marshawn loved the words One Love, so we talked a lot about love as we grieve. I got a chance to really share a couple of things that I’ll miss the most about Marshawn.

“Those top couple of things was he had the most playful spirit of any young man I’ve been around. His smile could take you to your knees. And in terms of him as an athlete, no one had a better motor than him. My heart is heavy, our team’s heart is heavy. We don’t move on, but we do move forward.”

Marshawn Kneeland died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound last week. Police found his body in the early morning last Thursday after he had evaded officers during a pursuit and fled on foot, according to ESPN.

More on the Cowboys paying tribute to Marshawn Kneeland

Following Kneeland’s death, the Cowboys released a statement. “It is with extreme sadness that the Dallas Cowboys share that Marshawn Kneeland tragically passed away this morning,” the Cowboys said. Marshawn was a beloved teammate and member of our organization. Our thoughts and prayers regarding Marshawn are with his girlfriend, Catalina, and his family.”

The Cowboys selected Kneeland in the second round (No. 56 overall) of the 2024 NFL Draft. He missed six games during his rookie season due to a knee injury, and Kneeland finished the year playing in 11 games with one start. This year, the former Western Michigan star played in seven of nine games and tallied 15 tackles, one sack, and six QB pressures.

The Cowboys plan to honor Kneeland for the rest of the season by wearing a special helmet decal. They will also warm up in special t-shirts in their upcoming game against the Las Vegas Raiders and the game next week against the Philadelphia Eagles, when they play their first home game since Kneeland’s passing.