In a poignant turn of events just days after the untimely death of Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland, it has come to light that his girlfriend, Catalina Mancera, is expecting their first child. The news adds a layer of heartfelt complexity to an already tragic story.

In a November 12 press conference, Cowboys offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer shared the bittersweet announcement while also unveiling the establishment of the Marshawn Kneeland Memorial Fund. This fund is designed to provide enduring support for Mancera and the couple’s unborn child, ensuring their well-being in the years to come.

“Catalina is pregnant, and we are committed to ensuring both she and the baby are well taken care of for the rest of their lives,” Schottenheimer stated. He emphasized the importance of this initiative to the players, the staff, and the entire organization, as it offers a channel for everyone to come together in support during this challenging period.

The tragic circumstances surrounding Kneeland’s death have left a profound impact. The 24-year-old passed away on November 5 from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, following a dramatic car crash and police chase near Frisco, Texas. In the hours leading up to the incident, Mancera had reached out to authorities, expressing concerns about Kneeland’s possession of a firearm and threats he had allegedly made.

He added that the fund gives players, staff, and fans a way to come together and help support Kneeland’s family during this difficult time.

Kneeland, 24, died on November 5 from what authorities described as a self-inflicted gunshot wound following a vehicle crash and police pursuit near Frisco, Texas. Officials said that in the hours before the tragedy, Mancera reached out to police with concerns that he had a firearm and had made threats.

In her first interview since his death, Mancera told the Daily Mail she is still working through her grief. “I’m grieving hard right now. It will be a long time before I’ll feel ready to talk at any length,” she said. “We’re still in the early stages of everything. We are working on the funeral arrangements. I don’t know where it’s going to be yet.”

She also shared a message online honoring Kneeland, writing, “My sweet baby, words could never express how broken I feel. You’re my everything. I’ll love you forever, my beautiful angel.”

Kneeland had just begun his rookie season with the Cowboys after being drafted in 2024. His sudden passing has left teammates, fans, and loved ones grieving the loss of a young player with a promising future.