Head coach Matt Rhule provided the perfect perspective on the tragic incident that unfolded in Dallas, Texas recently.
It was earlier today that the NFL made the sad announcement that Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland had passed away. Not even a week ago, he scored a defensive touchdown in the Cowboys’ game against the Arizona Cardinals:
“It is with extreme sadness that the Dallas Cowboys share that Marshawn Kneeland tragically passed away this morning. Marshawn was a beloved teammate and member of our organization. Our thoughts and prayers regarding Marshawn are with his girlfriend Catalina and his family.”
According to the Frisco, Texas police department, officers responded to assist the Texas Department of Public Safety with locating a vehicle that had fled from police. When troopers found the car crashed, officers began searching the area with K9 and drones. But approximately three hours later, Kneeland was found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
It’s a truly shocking development that goes to show that you never know what people are going through.
That’s the message that Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule shared during his time with the media today. He was visibly shaken by the reports of what had happened, and encouraged those listening to be kind to those that are around them:
“Seeing the tragic news out of Dallas today, and understanding that none of us know what people are going through. That’s why I think we should all be careful about what we say to people. I think we should all be careful about what we tweet about people. I think we should be cognizant of what everyone’s going through.”
This story hits close to home for Rhule because he once lost a former player to suicide.
Adrian Robinson played underneath Rhule at Temple University. He went on to play in the NFL, and it was after his years in the league that Rhule said he had a chance to talk with him on campus at Temple, but ended up deciding not to. The college football coach says a week after that, Robinson took his own life. A month afterwards, Rhule was giving the eulogy at his former player’s funeral.
Matt Rhule says he’s haunted by that, and he used it as a lesson to always check in on the people that are in his life:
“I think it’s the time in this world to be kind to people, and at the same time, care about people and ask about people. Our generation of kids, my kids, they all just say, ‘I’m fine, I’m straight.’ You’ve really gotta unearth it. I look at travel and time together at practice as chances to impact young people’s lives.
I would encourage everybody to. I would encourage everybody, today, with your own kids or the people you work with, just to check on them. That young man scored a touchdown just a couple of days ago. And to the outside world you’d think he’s at the pinnacle. But he was dealing with something — I don’t know what it was. But I pray for him, him and his family.”
That’s really well articulated by Matt Rhule.
Now, the Nebraska head coach is getting praise for how he gave a platform to mental health during his time with the media. It’s certainly a sad day with the news of passing of Marshawn Kneeland, but Rhule is hoping that some good can come from it. And those on social media are commending the coach for his words and his call to action for others to be kind and check in with people they love:
“I’m not a Nebraska fan, but I’m now a Matt Rhule fan.”
“Great point coach. All parents take note.”
“That’s beautifully worded and perfectly delivered. Matt is a hell of a coach and his team is lucky to be a part of his program.”
“Love this. Shoutout to Coach Rhule for this.”
“One of the best things I’ve heard in a long time.”
“Profound from Rhule. Mental health in sports needs champions.”
If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available by calling or texting 988, or by chatting online at 988lifeline.org.
