Ten weeks after a loss that shook the Dallas Cowboys and their fans, a personal update from his family has brought a moment of light into a dark chapter. The girlfriend of late Cowboys player Marshawn Kneeland has shared an update on her pregnancy that speaks of coping and moving forward one day at a time.
Kneeland died on November 6, 2025, just days after he scored a touchdown for Dallas. The suddenness of it left teammates, coaches, and supporters stunned. Since then, many have wondered how those closest to him were coping. On Sunday, December 28, one post offered a glimpse into that reality, showing both heartbreak and strength existing side by side.
Catalina Mancera shares pregnancy update while honoring Marshawn Kneeland
Catalina Mancera shared ultrasound photos of her unborn baby on Instagram, confirming she is continuing the pregnancy she and Kneeland had planned together. The baby is due in June 2026. Along with the images, Mancera wrote a message that captured the mix of joy and grief she is feeling. “My sweet baby, I dreamed of you long before I ever knew you,” Mancera wrote. “I dreamed of building a family, of the life your dad and I talked about and imagined together.
“I’m so excited for you, but my heart still aches. It aches for the moments I won’t get to share with him, and for the love I wish you could experience the way I did.”
She went on to explain how the pregnancy has given her something to hold onto during the hardest days. “I don't think time will ever make this easier, but I know God knew what my heart needed,” she continued. “He blessed me with you when I needed you most. In the middle of all this, you gave me purpose, hope, and something to hold onto. I trust God's timing, even when it hurts, and I know He's carrying us both. “I promise to love you with everything I have for me and for your dad. I can't wait to meet you, to hold you, and to watch you grow. I love you already.”
After Kneeland’s death, it came to light was Mancera was pregnant with their first child. That was later confirmed publicly by Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer, who also announced the creation of the Marshawn Kneeland Memorial Fund to support Mancera and the baby. “I'd like to take a few moments and offer my condolences to Marshawn's family, Catalina, his girlfriend,” Schottenheimer said.
Shortly after his death, Mancera shared her own tribute, writing, “Your laugh will always be imprinted in my mind. I will carry your legacy as long as I'm still here.”
Also read: Brian Schottenheimer explains how Marshawn Kneeland’s relentless legacy fueled Cowboys win