Cowboys Assistant Coach Shares Regret Following Marshawn Kneeland’s Death

Dallas Cowboys defensive line assistant coach Greg Ellis expressed feelings of regret today, stating he believes he could have done more to support player Marshawn Kneeland, who died yesterday from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Kneeland, 24, was drafted by the Cowboys in the second round of the 2024 NFL draft after Ellis advocated for his selection. The two developed a close relationship, and Ellis, a mental health advocate who directed the film “My Dear,” had discussed mental wellbeing with Kneeland. “For me, I should have known,” Ellis said Thursday night. “But the moments that I pay attention to him when he would withdraw, he would get quiet… I didn’t think it would lead to this.” Law enforcement reports indicate Kneeland’s girlfriend informed officers he had a history of mental health issues, and a goodbye text was sent to family members.

Ellis, who spent 11 seasons playing for the Cowboys, explained he hesitated to maintain consistent contact with Kneeland after a coaching staff change, fearing he would overstep boundaries. His last communication with Kneeland was via text on September 3rd. The tragedy underscores the critical need for ongoing mental health support within professional sports. “I wish he would have reached out to me,” Ellis stated, adding, “I needed to have been calling him… I didn’t do it.” Former Cowboys teammate and Pro Football Hall of Famer DeMarcus Ware emphasized the importance of openly addressing struggles, stating, “We all have to be more vocal in ways where when you see struggle it needs to be brought to the light.”

The NFL offers mental health programs for players, and the Cowboys have been proactive in providing counseling services. However, experts like Michael Lindsey, dean of the NYU Silver School of Social Work, suggest mandatory mental health treatment for all players upon entering the league. You can find more information about mental health resources at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Cowboys players are currently on a bye week and will gather to mourn Kneeland before their next game on November 17th in Las Vegas; players have already begun leaving flowers at his locker at The Star. The Dallas Morning News has more on this developing story.

Officials stated they will continue to offer support to Kneeland’s family and teammates, and are reviewing existing mental health resources available to players.