Dallas Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer has spoken publicly for the first time about the tragic death of defensive end Marshawn Kneeland — revealing not only the team’s overwhelming grief, but also the heartbreaking news that Kneeland’s girlfriend, Catalina, is currently pregnant with their child (ESPN).

Meeting with reporters following the team’s bye week, the first-year head coach opened his media availability with an emotional statement. He expressed his condolences to Kneeland’s family, friends, and girlfriend as they attempt to process an unimaginable loss (Associated Press).

Schottenheimer shared that on Tuesday night, the Cowboys gathered as a team to “celebrate” Kneeland’s life, coming together in a space where they could “tell some stories, share, laugh, and cry.”
He said the session was filled with memories, emotion, and reflection — exactly the kind of gathering he believes the young defensive end would have appreciated.

“Marshawn loved the words one love,” Schottenheimer said. “So we talked a lot about love as we grieved.”

Remembering Marshawn Kneeland

Schottenheimer took a moment to speak personally about what Kneeland meant to him and to the organization. The 24-year-old, he said, had one of the most joyful personalities he had ever encountered in a young athlete.

“He had the most playful spirit of any young man I’ve been around,” the coach reflected. “His smile could take you to your knees.”

From a football standpoint, Schottenheimer praised Kneeland’s commitment and on-field drive.

“No one had a better motor than him,” he added — a sentiment echoed by several teammates in recent tributes (NFL Network).

Support for Catalina and the Future Baby

The Cowboys have already begun establishing a memorial fund in Kneeland’s honor, with the specific goal of ensuring that Catalina and the baby are supported long-term.

“We want to make sure Catalina and the child are taken care of for the rest of their lives,” Schottenheimer said. “My heart is heavy. Our team’s heart is heavy. We don’t move on, but we do move forward.”

According to the Dallas Morning News, members of the organization have privately expressed a desire to remain closely involved with the family in the months ahead.

Cowboys Plan to Honor Kneeland on Game Day

After their bye week, the Cowboys will travel to Las Vegas for Monday Night Football, where they intend to honor their late teammate. The players will wear a commemorative decal on their helmets and special T-shirts during warmups as a tribute to Kneeland’s legacy and impact on the team (USA Today Sports).

The Cowboys’ locker room, coaching staff, and fan base continue to mourn — but Schottenheimer emphasized that the team will draw strength from one another as they navigate the difficult days ahead.