In a heartbreaking update following the tragic death of Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland, head coach Brian Schottenheimer confirmed that Kneeland’s girlfriend, Catalina Mancera, is expecting the couple’s first child.
During a press conference on Wednesday, November 12, Schottenheimer shared the emotional news, saying, “We want to make sure she’s taken care of and the baby is taken care of for the rest of their lives.”
The announcement comes just a week after Kneeland, 24, died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to The Dallas Morning News.
To honor his memory, the Cowboys have launched the Marshawn Kneeland Memorial Fund, which will provide long-term financial support for Mancera and their unborn baby. The fund’s mission statement reads, “The Marshawn Kneeland Memorial Fund is dedicated to preserving Marshawn’s legacy and extending his impact through direct support for his surviving partner and unborn heir.”
The loss of Kneeland has shaken the Cowboys organization and fans across the league. On November 6, the team released a statement saying, “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.”
On Monday, Mancera spoke out for the first time, telling The Daily Mail, “I’m grieving hard right today. It will be a long time before I’ll feel ready to talk at any length.”
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