The Dallas Cowboys have been receiving a lot of support following the tragic passing of 24-year-old defensive end Marshawn Kneeland, though not all of it has been appreciated.
Safety Juannie Thomas took to X to express her frustration with certain messages she’s received after Kneeland’s death, which resulted from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. “Please don’t send me DMs saying, ‘If this doesn’t motivate Yards’ defense, then this…’ I can’t deal with that right now.” Thomas, now in her third season with the team, added, “I just lost a brother. We shared so much together. It’s frustrating how wrapped up you guys can get in the sport…”
Following an emotional week, the atmosphere remains charged within Dallas and the broader NFL community. This comes after Kneeland reportedly fled from a traffic stop, culminating in a police pursuit that ended when officers lost sight of his vehicle. Eventually, the car was located abandoned, and Kneeland was discovered dead in a nearby portable toilet.
Thomas shared two poignant photos of herself with Kneeland on the field, a reminder of their connection.
Kneeland had spent one full season with the Cowboys, having been drafted in the second round (56th overall) in 2024 from Western Michigan.
The Cowboys, who now hold a record of 3-5 this season, are heading into a critical bye week.
Quarterback Dak Prescott, visibly shaken, shared his feelings with CBS News Texas. “It was a tough day… I started hearing the news early. This is a tragic loss, and I’m feeling the weight of it. I’m hurting for Marshawn, for his family, his girlfriend, and all my teammates,” he said.
He added, “This is pain I wouldn’t wish on anyone. None of us would want to go through this, and I’m sure Marshawn wouldn’t either. We should cherish every moment and not take life for granted.”
The Cowboys are set to return on November 17th for a “Monday Night Football” matchup against the Raiders.
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