Home / Sports / Kneeland's girlfriend honors him 6 months after death
Kneeland's girlfriend honors him 6 months after death
8 May
Summary
- Girlfriend shares emotional tribute six months after his passing.
- Cowboys face criticism over retired jersey number usage.
- Kneeland's unborn child expected in June 2026.
Six months after former Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland's passing at 24, his girlfriend Catalina Mancera has shared a deeply personal message remembering him. The emotional tribute highlights the ongoing grief and the profound impact of his loss. Mancera is expecting their child, due in June 2026, a detail that coach Brian Schottenheimer confirmed following Kneeland's death in November 2025.
Kneeland's death, attributed to an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound, has brought to light his prior struggles with mental health. The Cowboys initially received praise for honoring him with helmet decals and a memorial fund. However, controversy arose when rookie Kelvin Gilliam wore No. 94 during minicamp, drawing criticism from former players who felt the number should have remained retired.
This jersey number held significant meaning for Kneeland, who aspired to add to its legacy, previously worn by legends DeMarcus Ware and Charles Haley. The handling of his memory and the jersey number has reopened difficult conversations for those closest to him.
