Dallas Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer convened the team for an in‑person session following the death of defensive lineman Marshawn Kneeland, creating space for players and staff to grieve together. The private meeting brought team mental‑health professionals and security staff into the building to support players through the immediate shock and sorrow.
The gathering took place during Dallas’ bye week, days after Kneeland was found dead in an apparent suicide following a traffic incident and a brief pursuit in the Dallas area. Schottenheimer led the session alongside the team’s independent psychologist and security director, arranging a structured, confidential environment in which teammates could express emotion and check on one another.
Dallas Cowboys, Marshawn Kneeland, NFL
Aug 16, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland (94) after the game against the Baltimore Ravens at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
Players described the meeting as emotional and impactful, with veterans and newcomers choosing to be present even when they were not required. The coach’s decision to bring therapists into the facility and allow an unpressured, open discussion was viewed internally as an important step in acknowledging the human side of professional sport amid tragedy.
Organizers included resources for immediate counselling and follow‑up support, recognising that a single meeting is only the first step in a longer healing process. Team leaders also coordinated community and charitable actions to honor Kneeland’s memory and to channel grief into constructive outreach, including events linked to mental‑health awareness.
The team has since instituted visible tributes at games and on social platforms, and the NFL coordinated moments of silence league‑wide. Schottenheimer’s approach emphasised both compassion and practical support, with team officials stressing confidentiality and care for Kneeland’s family and close contacts.
Dallas Cowboys’ Brian Schottenheimer Earns Praise On How He Handled Marshawn Kneeland’s Passing
Dallas Cowboys, Brian Schottenheimer
Oct 19, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer looks on prior to the game against the Washington Commanders at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
Schottenheimer is earning raves due to how he handled Kneeland’s death with the team. This can be seen in a post shared by Tommy Yarrish on X.
The #Cowboys held a “extremely impactful, extremely emotional” team meeting today for the first time in person since Marshawn Kneeland’s passing. Head coach Brian Schottenheimer got high marks from Thomas for how he handled it:
“Extremely proud of coach [Brian Schottenheimer]… https://t.co/vkZJxcuuOf
— Tommy Yarrish (@tommy_yarrish) November 10, 2025
The meeting reflected a wider shift across professional sports toward prioritising mental‑health resources and peer support in the aftermath of loss. For the Cowboys, the immediate priority remained the welfare of players and staff as they navigated grief together.
Dallas Cowboys, Brian Schottenheimer
Oct 19, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer looks on during the third quarter of the game against the Washington Commanders at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
Schottenheimer’s handling of the situation drew praise from teammates who said the forum allowed them to be vulnerable and to start processing the loss. The coach and the organisation signalled a commitment to continued support as the team moves forward.
Dallas Cowboys, Brian Schottenheimer
Oct 12, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Dallas Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer reacts during warm ups prior the game against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Cory Knowlton-Imagn Images
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