Micah Parsons Reflects on Teammate Marshawn Kneeland’s Death, Calls for Greater Focus on Mental Health

GREEN BAY, Wis. — Micah Parsons spent Friday morning in reflection, mourning the loss of his former Dallas Cowboys teammate, Marshawn Kneeland. The 23-year-old defensive lineman died Thursday from what authorities described as a self-inflicted gunshot wound, sending shockwaves through the NFL community. Parsons, now a Green Bay Packer following an offseason trade, took time during his media session to share memories of Kneeland and speak about the importance of mental health in sports.

Parsons described Kneeland as a respectful, kind, and down-to-earth person who loved anime and video games. “Marshawn’s a guy who loved his anime, loved his video games like anybody else,” Parsons said. “He always showed me nothing but respect from the moment he came into the locker room. If there’s anything his family needs, I’ll be the first to offer help.”

Kneeland, a second-round pick by the Cowboys in 2024, played one season alongside Parsons. His death has sparked renewed discussion within the league about the pressures athletes face both on and off the field. Parsons emphasized that the tragedy serves as a reminder to value personal connections beyond the game.

“I just hope that he and his family find peace in this situation,” Parsons said, visibly emotional. “At the end of the day, we’re all human. Sometimes people forget that.”

1. The Pressure Behind the Game

Parsons’ remarks went beyond remembrance. He used the moment to address the intense scrutiny that comes with being a professional athlete — and the toll it can take. “We’d be fools to act like what we do isn’t pressure,” he said. “You’re expected to perform at a high level every week, and when you don’t, people say some harsh things — even wishing players harm.” He noted that while fans and critics often voice strong opinions, the human impact of such criticism can be lasting. “As athletes, most of us see it,” Parsons continued. “We wait until someone passes to realize how our words and actions can affect people.” The linebacker called for greater empathy and awareness, saying that mental health needs to be treated as a shared responsibility within the football community. “We don’t all know what Marshawn was going through, but it’s important we’re there for each other — not just as teammates, but as people,” he said. Parsons reflected on how easily society separates the player from the person. “Sometimes you wish things were different because it’s the person — not the uniform — we should care for,” he said. “That’s what I’m trying to focus on more: the person side over the football side.”

2. Family, Faith, and Finding Perspective

Parsons shared that he received the news while spending time with family in Green Bay — something he said provided comfort amid the shock. “I’m thankful my family was here when I got the call,” he said. “It reminded me to keep praying and to check in on people more often.” He urged others to do the same. “Life’s just so short,” Parsons said. “We should appreciate people while they’re here — be intentional with how we love, treat, and accept each other.” The Cowboys, on a bye week, have yet to make formal public statements, but Parsons’ words were among the first from any of Kneeland’s former teammates. “I have to find a way to embrace my emotions and be there for his family and my former teammates,” he said. “Losing a teammate is like losing a brother. We spend so much time together — in practice, in the locker room, traveling. It’s a bond people outside don’t always see.” For Parsons, football is secondary this week to supporting others. “The NFL is a brotherhood,” he said. “No matter which team you’re on, you bleed and sweat together. That doesn’t go away. It hurts, but we’ve got to find a way to carry on — that’s what he would’ve wanted.”

3. Authorities Detail Final Hours

According to Frisco (Texas) Police, Kneeland’s death followed a late-night pursuit on Wednesday. The Texas Department of Public Safety had requested assistance after Kneeland’s vehicle evaded troopers and later crashed near the Dallas Parkway. Authorities reported that Kneeland fled on foot, prompting a search involving K-9 and drone units. During the search, dispatchers informed officers that several people who knew Kneeland had received a group text message from him saying goodbye — leading to increased concern for his safety. Roughly three hours later, officers found Kneeland with what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The investigation remains ongoing, but police confirmed no signs of foul play. The news has prompted widespread sorrow across the NFL, with players and teams expressing condolences online. As one scout told reporters, “You never know what someone is going through behind the scenes. It’s a reminder to check in, to listen, and to care.”