Four days after the death of Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland at age 24, his girlfriend, Catalina Mancera, has shared a heartfelt tribute and the team has publicly pledged support for her and their unborn child.
Mancera posted a photo of the couple to Facebook on Monday, November 10, writing, “My sweet baby, words could never express how broken I feel, you’re my everything. I’ll love you forever my beautiful angel,” followed by a white heart emoji. Friends and family quickly filled the comments with messages of love and encouragement, reflecting the deep impact Kneeland had on those around him.
Mancera’s Tribute And An Outpouring Of Support
Mancera’s emotional message marks her first public statement since Kneeland’s passing. In the hours after the post, loved ones rallied to her side on social media. One commenter wrote, “Love you Cat. He is always with you. Praying for you and thinking of you so much, and for his family and your family.” Another added, “Marshawn will always be with you. You could see the love you shared so deeply!”
On Wednesday, November 12, Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer shared a significant update during a press conference, revealing that Mancera is pregnant with Kneeland’s child. “We want to make sure she’s taken care of and the baby is taken care of for the rest of their lives,” he said, according to People. The organization’s emphasis on long-term support underlines how beloved Kneeland was in the locker room and throughout the franchise.
Kneeland, a second-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, had quickly become a promising presence on the Cowboys’ defensive line. His death was confirmed by the team on November 6. “It is with extreme sadness that the Dallas Cowboys share that Marshawn Kneeland tragically passed away this morning,” the club said in a statement obtained by People. “Marshawn was a beloved teammate and member of our organization. Our thoughts and prayers regarding Marshawn are with his girlfriend Catalina and his family.”
What Authorities Have Said
Authorities have confirmed that Kneeland died by suicide following a police pursuit late on November 5. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, troopers attempted to stop a vehicle for a traffic violation at approximately 10:33 p.m. The driver did not stop, and officers later lost sight of the vehicle, Dallas News reported.
Later that night, the vehicle was found abandoned on the southbound lanes of Dallas Parkway near Warren Parkway. Initial reports indicated Kneeland fled the scene on foot. A search involving K-9 and drone units followed, and DPS troopers and Frisco police discovered Kneeland deceased at around 1:31 a.m. on November 6, per the outlet.
Prior to the pursuit, Plano Police Department officers responded to a welfare concern at an address associated with Kneeland, spokesperson Jerry Minton said. Officers were unable to make contact before the chase. No further details were provided at the time of publication.
Kneeland’s death occurred just days after the Cowboys’ Monday Night Football matchup against the Arizona Cardinals on November 3. He had been in the early stages of his NFL career, working to establish himself as part of Dallas’ future on defense.
Family Remembers Kneeland’s Life And Legacy
Kneeland’s family issued a statement expressing their grief and honoring his impact both on and off the field. “We are devastated by this tremendous loss and are still processing the depth of our grief,” the family said, according to Dallas News. “As Marshawn was making his mark on the football field with the Dallas Cowboys, he held an even more special place off the field — as a devoted son, brother, uncle, cousin, nephew, grandson, and friend. He was kind, determined, humble, and full of love. His light shone brightly in every life he touched, and his spirit will continue to live on through the countless hearts he inspired.”
The Cowboys organization, teammates, and fans have echoed similar sentiments in the days since, lauding Kneeland’s character and work ethic as much as his football talent. While his professional prospects were bright, those closest to him continue to remember the warmth and generosity he carried beyond the game.
As the team and community rally around Mancera, Schottenheimer’s public commitment to supporting her and the baby underscores a broader effort to provide sustained care. It’s a gesture that reflects the NFL community’s continued focus on mental health, player welfare, and the families who share in both the triumphs and the tragedies of the sport.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. In the United States, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or chat via 988lifeline.org. For international resources, visit findahelpline.com.
