FRISCO, Texas — In a poignant moment for the Dallas Cowboys, head coach Brian Schottenheimer addressed the media for the first time since the devastating loss of defensive end Marshawn Kneeland. Known for his usual upbeat demeanor, Schottenheimer displayed a different emotional depth on this occasion. “I”m hurting,” he admitted, reflecting the team”s collective sorrow.
Kneeland, who was only 24, tragically took his own life following a police pursuit near the Cowboys” practice facility last Thursday. His unexpected passing has left a significant impact on the organization. Schottenheimer struggled to maintain his composure during the press conference, at times speaking softly as he conveyed the heavy burden of leading the team through such a difficult moment. “So my heart is heavy, our team”s heart is heavy,” he stated. “We don”t move on, but we do move forward.”
In the wake of Kneeland”s death, the Cowboys organized a Zoom call for players and staff to express their love and support for him. This was followed by ongoing discussions at team meetings, a breakfast gathering with leadership, and a prayer vigil at the Ford Center, which included Kneeland”s girlfriend, Catalina Mancera, who is expecting their child.
Schottenheimer, who identifies as a “people person,” found it challenging to speak at the vigil. “I literally wasn”t sure I could get through my part of last night speaking at his candlelight vigil,” he noted. He emphasized the importance of taking things “one day at a time,” acknowledging that answers may not come easily. “But you lean into one another, you love on one another,” he encouraged.
Support has been extended through mental health and wellness consultant Heather Twedell, along with league counselors and a group from O2X Human Performance, an organization that aids law enforcement and athletes in coping with stress and grief. “There”s no playbook for this, so that”s where the late nights come in,” Schottenheimer explained. “But being strong for our football team is crucial.” He highlighted the exceptional bond within the locker room, which has become even more apparent during this challenging time.
The Cowboys are set to practice for their upcoming game against Las Vegas on November 17. In honor of Kneeland, the team will wear a helmet decal that is currently being designed. For their next two games, players will don custom T-shirts in memory of Kneeland, and a video tribute along with a moment of silence is planned for the matchup against Philadelphia.
Schottenheimer mentioned that Kneeland”s family and management team have established a memorial fund to support his girlfriend. The team is committed to providing as much assistance as possible to them. Moving forward will be a tough journey for the Cowboys, as Schottenheimer admitted he is still grappling with the loss. He recalled Kneeland”s spirit, noting, “He had the most playful spirit of any young man I”ve been around. His smile could take you to your knees.”
For many within the organization, Kneeland”s death resonates deeply, especially for those with children near his age. Schottenheimer, who has two children, expressed that he has been speaking to them more frequently since the tragedy. “Quite a bit,” he replied, his voice thick with emotion. Wednesday marked a significant departure from the norm for Schottenheimer and the entire Cowboys organization, and it may take time before they find a semblance of normalcy. “We will move forward,” he affirmed. “The one benefit of playing on Monday night is we”ve been given a little more time to grieve. That grieving process is not over.”
As they navigate this challenging period, Schottenheimer believes the best way to honor Kneeland on the field is through their performance. “That”s something we get to control, and I think the guys are excited about that,” he concluded.
