The Dallas Cowboys turned heartbreak into inspiration Monday night as they honored teammate Marshawn Kneeland during an emotional victory over the Las Vegas Raiders. For quarterback Dak Prescott, the win was about more than football. It was about remembering a teammate, a friend, and the importance of love and compassion in the face of tragedy.
Playing in their first game since Kneeland’s death on November 6, the team wore memorial decals, special pregame shirts, and observed a moment of silence before kickoff at Allegiant Stadium. Behind Prescott’s four-touchdown performance and the defense’s relentless effort, Dallas powered to a 33-16 win that carried extra emotional weight. Every snap felt like a tribute, each play an act of remembrance for a player who had become a beloved part of the team in such a short time.
Dallas Cowboys, Marshawn Kneeland, NFL
Sep 15, 2024; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland (94) walks off the field after the game against the New Orleans Saints at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-Imagn Images
Prescott was visibly emotional afterward, addressing how the team had found strength in unity through grief. Reflecting on the moment, he reminded players and fans that life extends far beyond the game, stressing that their relationships, empathy, and support for one another were what truly mattered. Writing “One Love” on his wristband, the quarterback invoked one of Kneeland’s favorite phrases, a message the Cowboys have embraced as a guiding principle for the rest of their season.
Monday’s game was filled with gestures of remembrance. Defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa carried Kneeland’s No. 94 jersey back to the locker room, while coaches and staff sported pins in his honor. Even the opposing Raiders joined in, wearing suicide prevention shirts featuring the 988 Lifeline and standing in solidarity during the pregame ceremony.
Dallas Cowboys Star Dak Prescott Shares Powerful Message After Marshawn Kneeland’s Death
Dallas Cowboys, Dak Prescott, NFL
Nov 17, 2025; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) throws a pass during the second half against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images
Prescott recently shared his thoughts on life after Kneeland’s passing. This can be seen in a video shared by the league’s official X account.
a reminder we all needed ❤️ pic.twitter.com/RtDM1Tg171
— NFL (@NFL) November 18, 2025
Dallas vowed to keep Kneeland’s name at the heart of its journey moving forward. Prescott said the team would continue carrying his spirit, using his light as motivation during the final stretch of the season.
Dallas Cowboys, Marshawn Kneeland, NFL
Aug 24, 2024; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland (94) walks off the field after the game against the Los Angeles Chargers at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Above all, Prescott’s message was clear. Football is fleeting, but humanity endures. In honoring Kneeland, Dallas not only found victory but also rediscovered what binds the team together: compassion, legacy, and the love that outlasts loss.
Dallas Cowboys, Dak Prescott, NFL
Nov 3, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) throws the ball during the game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Arizona Cardinals at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
For More Of My Content
For More Of My Content Follow me on Twitter at @BeatKit22. You may also reach out to me personally at kitguinhawa@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in college and NFL news, click here!