The Dallas Cowboys are grappling with the aftermath of the tragic death of defensive end Marshawn Kneeland, who passed away on March 7, 2024, from a self-inflicted gunshot wound following a police chase in Frisco, Texas. In a poignant development, Brian Schottenheimer, the head coach of the Cowboys, announced on March 13 that Kneeland’s longtime girlfriend, Catalina Mancera, is pregnant with their first child.
As the team and fans mourn the loss of Kneeland, Schottenheimer emphasized the organization’s commitment to supporting Mancera and their unborn child. “We want to make sure she’s taken care of, and the baby’s taken care of, for the rest of their lives,” he stated. To facilitate this support, the Cowboys have established a memorial fund intended to provide financial assistance to Mancera and ensure a lasting legacy for Kneeland.
The memorial fund is described on its donation page as “dedicated to preserving Marshawn’s legacy and extending his impact through direct support for his surviving partner and unborn heir.” This initiative reflects the team’s dedication to honoring Kneeland’s memory while also addressing the immediate needs of his family.
Kneeland and Mancera’s relationship began during his sophomore year at Western Michigan University. Although Mancera has not publicly discussed her pregnancy, she has expressed her grief following Kneeland’s death. In a heartfelt statement to a tabloid, she shared, “I’m grieving hard right now. It will be a long time before I’ll feel ready to talk at any length. We’re still in the early stages of everything. We are working on the funeral arrangements.”
In another emotional message, Mancera reflected on her loss, writing, “My sweet baby, words could never express how broken I feel. You’re my everything. I’ll love you forever my beautiful angel 🤍.” These statements underscore the profound impact of Kneeland’s passing on both Mancera and the broader community.
As the Cowboys organization rallies around Mancera during this difficult time, the memorial fund serves not only as a financial lifeline but also as a testament to the love and support that exists within the NFL family. The team’s efforts to honor Kneeland’s legacy will resonate with fans and players alike, as they navigate the challenges brought on by this tragedy.