The Dallas Cowboys’ mandatory minicamp began on Tuesday and there was some special news was relayed by head coach Brian Schottenheimer. For once, this wasn’t about wide receiver George Pickens, who has dominated the offseason news cycle for the organization.
Schottenheimer revealed that Catalina Mancera, girlfriend of former Cowboys edge rusher Marshawn Kneeland — who passed away mid-season — delivered a healthy baby boy born last week. Kneeland’s son, Makhai Kneeland, came into the world on June 11, 2026.
Schottenheimer mentioned he came into contact with Mancera at linebacker DeMarvion Overshown’s wedding a few weeks ago, as his teammates are still in touch with and supporting Kneeland’s family.
The former second-round pick had been involved in a police chase last November, following which he took his own life during a mental health episode. The Cowboys paid tribute to Kneeland throughout the rest of the 2025 season. and clearly are still keeping in contact with his girlfriend.
This continues to be a theme for the franchise under Schottenheimer, who believes in a close knit family atmosphere. The baby was born soon after the wedding, prompting Schottenheimer to share: “When you’re part of our family, you’re family for life.”
The Cowboys are making sure Kneeland will not be forgotten, and his legacy can live on through his son.
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This article originally appeared on Cowboys Wire: All in the Cowboys’ family: Marshawn Kneeland’s son has arrived
Reporting by Ben Grimaldi, Cowboys Wire / Cowboys Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Ben Grimaldi, Cowboys Wire | USA TODAY Network
