Solomon Thomas expressed his grief for teammate Marshawn Kneeland after the latter’s tragic death on Thursday.
As part of the Cowboys’ defensive line with Nyland this season, Thomas shared a heartfelt message on Instagram.
“Brother Marshawn, I love you,” he wrote in an Instagram story. “We wanted you to know that it would be okay. We wanted you to know that the pain wouldn’t last and how much you were loved. We wanted you to know how sad we were that we wanted you to stay. Our hearts are breaking for you and your loved ones. We lift your spirits every day.”
“To those who are suffering, hold on to that light. Know that there’s always help and hope. No matter what story you’re going through, it’s okay to feel that pain. It’s okay to not be okay. But the light will come again.”
The Texas Department of Public Safety reported that Kneeland, aged 24, died by suicide from a self-inflicted gunshot wound following a police pursuit.
DPS officials noted that they pursued Kneeland after he failed to stop for a traffic violation on Wednesday night.
Initially, police lost track of his vehicle, but it was later discovered abandoned, seemingly involved in a collision.
Police audio obtained by TMZ revealed that Kneeland’s body was found in a nearby entryway bathroom.
“The Dallas Cowboys are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Marshawn Kneeland this morning. Marshawn was a beloved teammate and member of our organization. Our thoughts and prayers are with his girlfriend Katarina and his family,” the Cowboys stated.
According to police audio, Katarina expressed concern that Kneeland might be “armed” and suggested he would “end this all.”
It was also reported that he sent an email to his family saying “goodbye.”
“I watched him go from being a promising kid at Western Michigan University to becoming a respected professional with the Dallas Cowboys,” Kneeland’s agent, John Pursley, said. “Marshawn poured his heart into every snap, every practice and every moment on the field. Losing someone of his talent, spirit, and goodness is an indescribable pain.
“My heart aches for his family, teammates, and everyone who loved him. We hope they feel the support of the entire football community during this unimaginable time. We ask that you allow his loved ones the privacy and compassion they need as they grieve this great loss.”
If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts or facing a mental health crisis, you can call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org for free and confidential crisis counseling.
