How the Dallas Cowboys Came Together After Marshawn Kneeland’s Death

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Content warning: This story discusses suicide.  

Marshawn Kneeland’s NFL teammates are leaning on each other amid their grief.

I was absolutely heartbroken when I heard about DeMarcus Lawrence’s passing. But even through all the sadness, seeing the Cowboys come together for Solomon Thomas’s charity, The Defensive Line, was amazing. They used their bye week to pack food for people who really need it, and it just shows what kind of team they are. It honestly made me feel a little better, knowing they’re supporting each other and giving back even while grieving. It’s just… incredible.

You know, as a lifestyle expert, I always say connection is key, and that really rings true for the Cowboys right now. I recently read an interview with Thomas where he shared how tough it’s been with the team being apart, and how much it meant to finally be back in the building together. It’s a simple thing, but that shared space and camaraderie clearly makes a huge difference for their dynamic.

With everyone feeling strongly about the situation, this initiative gave the athletes a chance to find meaning and motivation in their struggles.

Thomas, 30, explained that despite letting everyone know it was okay if they didn’t feel up to coming, they all wanted to be there together. He said they were all grieving and wanted to support and comfort each other.

Earlier that day, the team came together for the first time since the passing of Kneeland, who was 24 years old. The meeting was led by head coach Brian Schottenheimer, team psychologist Heather Twedell, and director of team security Cable Johnson. Thomas praised his coach for creating a safe environment for the team to talk about their grief.

He explained they needed a day to grieve and express their emotions. It was a very difficult day for everyone connected to Marshawn, and he appreciated how Schottenheimer handled everything with sensitivity.

The loss was especially difficult for Thomas, as his sister Ella Thomas tragically took her own life in 2018. Because of this personal experience, he felt a strong need to support his teammates during this challenging time.

Losing my sister to suicide is incredibly painful for me, but I feel strongly that I need to be there for my teammates. I want them to know that help is available, that they are loved, and that we can get through this together while remembering Marshawn and acknowledging our own emotions.

On November 5th, Kneeland died after a car crash during a police chase. He ran from the scene, and his body was discovered the following morning, according to a statement from local authorities.

Shortly after the death, Kneeland’s family released a statement saying they were still trying to come to terms with their immense sadness.

While building a football career with the Dallas Cowboys, Marshawn was even more cherished for his close family ties and friendships. He brought joy to everyone he knew, and his positive influence will be remembered by many.

For a look back at Kneeland’s life in photos, keep reading.

Marshawn Kneeland‘s football career started long before his time at the NFL.

While in high school in Michigan, Marshawn had a standout senior year, making 110 tackles and 8 sacks on defense. He also excelled on offense with 20 catches for 330 yards and 5 touchdowns.

After finishing school, Marshawn went to Western Michigan University and played football for four years, finishing with an impressive 149 tackles and 12.5 sacks.

The athlete was known for his incredible work ethic during his time at school. He consistently went above and beyond, spending extra hours at the team’s facilities to practice and study game films.

According to his coach, David Denham, that’s when he really began to stand out from the competition.

The Dallas Cowboys drafted Marshawn in the second round of 2024, and team owner Jerry Jones famously told him, “We’re going to put a star on that helmet.”

The young athlete was determined to enjoy every second of the experience. “This is something I’ll likely never get to do again,” he explained about draft night, “so I’m just thrilled to be a part of it.”

As a lifestyle expert, I’ve always admired people who carry their strong work ethic with them, no matter where life takes them. That’s exactly what Marshawn did when he joined the NFL – he brought that same dedication and preparation to his first season that had always defined him.

As for how he was approaching the NFL, Marshawn just wanted to stick to his game plan. 

After being drafted, the player said he plans to continue playing the same way he always has: with a lot of energy, speed, and physicality. He believes success will depend on making good plays when the opportunity arises.

During his time with the Texas team, the 24-year-old player recorded 26 tackles and one sack in 18 games, starting in four of them.

Just days before his death, Marshawn scored his first touchdown in the league. 

According to his agent, Jonathan Perzley, Marshawn Beast Mode Lynch always gave his all to football. Perzley said that losing someone with Lynch’s skill, personality, and kindness is incredibly difficult to express.

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2025-11-11 23:18