The Dallas Cowboys announced on Thursday the death of former second-round pick Marshawn Kneeland, who died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound at just 24 years old.
“It is with extreme sadness that the Dallas Cowboys share that Marshawn Kneeland tragically passed away this morning. Marshawn was a beloved teammate and member of our organization. Our thoughts and prayers regarding Marshawn are with his girlfriend Catalina and his family,” the team said in a statement at the time.
The Cowboys won’t be taking the field this weekend as the team enters its bye week, but Kneeland’s death will be honored around the league.
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On Saturday, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported the NFL sent a memo to every team asking them to hold a moment of silence.
“The NFL sent a memo to all teams Friday, asking them to hold a moment of silence Sunday as part of the pre-game ceremonies in memory of the late Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland,” Schefter said. “The moment of silence will be followed by a message read in all NFL stadiums that says,’ If you or someone you know is struggling or needs emotional support, please call or text 988. The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24-7 to help.'”
After learning of Kneeland’s death, former Cowboys star Micah Parsons remembered his friend.
“Marshawn’s a guy who loved his anime, loved his video games like anybody else,” Parsons said. “To me, he always showed me nothing but respect from the moment he came into the locker room. He respected me as a player; he respected me as a person. So I have nothing but high respect for him. If there’s anything his family needs, I’ll be the first person to help or offer anything I can do to offer a person. I just hope that he finds his peace and his family peace in the situation.”
The first game of the weekend will take place in Berlin as the Indianapolis Colts kick off against the Atlanta Falcons at 9:30 a.m. ET.
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