The NFL community continues to mourn the tragic loss of Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland, who died earlier this week at just 24 years old. Now, one of his teammates — Micah Parsons — has shared an emotional message that’s left fans heartbroken.
On Instagram, Parsons posted a heartfelt tribute to Kneeland, writing:
“My heart hurts, bro. You had the biggest smile and the kindest soul. You worked harder than anyone in the room. Rest easy, 92 — we got you forever.”
The post included photos of the two teammates from training camp and the locker room, along with a black heart and dove emoji — a symbol of peace and remembrance.
Kneeland, a second-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft out of Western Michigan, was quickly becoming a fan favorite in Dallas. His relentless energy, upbeat personality, and work ethic stood out to veterans like Parsons, who often called him “a little brother.”
Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy described Kneeland as “a light in every room he entered.”
“You couldn’t help but smile when Marshawn walked in,” McCarthy said. “He loved football, but he loved people more. That’s what made him special.”
The news of Kneeland’s passing — ruled a suspected suicide by Frisco police — sent shockwaves through the league. In their statement, the NFL said it was “deeply saddened” and would provide mental health resources for players across all teams.
Fans flooded social media with tributes under hashtags like #RIPMarshawnKneeland and #CowboysNationStrong, sharing clips of his first NFL touchdown — a blocked punt recovery just days before his death.
For Parsons, the loss hits especially hard. The All-Pro linebacker had taken Kneeland under his wing since the rookie arrived in Dallas. Their bond, built through long practices and shared locker room laughs, was more than just football.
“This one hurts different,” Parsons added. “You were family. I’ll carry your name with me every snap.”
As the Cowboys prepare for their next game, the team plans to honor Kneeland with a helmet decal and a pregame tribute.
For now, one message echoes through the locker room — and across the NFL:
Gone too soon, but never forgotten.
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