Micah Parsons Pays Tribute to Ex-Cowboys Teammate During MNF

UPDATE: In a poignant moment before kickoff, Green Bay Packers defensive end Micah Parsons honored his late former teammate, Marshawn Kneeland, during the Packers’ Week 10 matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles on November 6, 2023. Kneeland, just 24 years old, tragically died by suicide last Thursday.

As the emotional tribute unfolded at Lambeau Field, Parsons was visibly moved, kneeling on the field in prayer, his head bowed and eyes closed. The stadium held a moment of silence to commemorate Kneeland’s life and contributions to the sport.

Parsons, who played alongside Kneeland for the Dallas Cowboys in 2024, expressed deep sorrow over the shocking news. “I was extremely hurt by the news,” Parsons said. “I just got to pray he finds his peace.” The outpouring of emotion reflects the close bonds forged in the NFL, demonstrating how tightly knit the community is, even across team lines.

Just a few months ago, Parsons was traded to the Packers in a blockbuster deal worth $188 million, while Dallas gained two first-round picks and defensive tackle Kenny Clark in return. Despite the recent transition, Parsons has not forgotten his roots and remains committed to honoring Kneeland’s memory.

In an interview before the game, Parsons shared, “We should all just use this time to stay prayed up… Life’s just so short, so we should really just start appreciating a little bit more.” He emphasized the importance of love and respect, particularly noting the strong mutual respect he shared with Kneeland, who he described as always showing him admiration in the locker room.

Parsons has also pledged to assist Kneeland’s family during this difficult time, stating, “If there’s anything his family needs, I’ll be the first person to help.” His commitment to supporting those affected by this tragedy highlights the human side of professional sports.

As the NFL community continues to grieve, this emotional display serves as a reminder of the challenges players face beyond the field. The tragic loss of Kneeland has resonated throughout the league, prompting discussions about mental health and the importance of support systems in sports.

Fans and players alike are encouraged to use this moment to reflect on their relationships and reach out to loved ones. As Parsons concluded, “We need to love people right and be purposeful with our intent.”

Stay tuned for more updates as the situation develops and the NFL community continues to process this heartbreaking news.