During the Thanksgiving halftime show at the Dallas Cowboys vs. Kansas City Chiefs game on Thursday, singer-rapper Post Malone honored the memory of the late Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland in a heartfelt gesture that resonated deeply with fans and the NFL community.
A Somber Tribute Amid Celebration
Post Malone — clad in the Cowboys’ navy colors — concluded his three-song medley with a message addressed to the crowd. “I love you so very much, Dallas, Texas,” he said. “Ladies and gentlemen, make some noise for the best team in the world: the Dallas Cowboys.”
Then he paused, his voice quieting but steady: “And we love you, 94. We love you.” The reference — and a large “94” pin fixed to his jacket — honored Kneeland’s jersey number.
Fans erupted in applause. Many turned to social media to express their appreciation. On X, one fan wrote: “Post Malone showing love to Marshawn Kneeland.” Another added: “Long Live MK94.”
Kneeland, 24, joined the Cowboys as a 2024 draft pick after a college career at Western Michigan Broncos. On November 6, he died by suicide following a police chase, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety.
In a team statement, the Cowboys said: “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 are with his girlfriend Catalina and his family.”
His agent, Jonathan Perzleyk, described the loss as “a pain I can hardly put into words,” and recalled Kneeland’s dedication on and off the field. “He poured his heart into every snap, every practice, and every moment on the field,” he wrote. During his two NFL seasons, Kneeland appeared in 18 games, registering 26 tackles and one sack.
Post Malone’s tribute came as the Cowboys took a 17–14 lead at halftime, and they went on to beat the Chiefs 31–28. Still, much of the attention focused less on the game and more on a shared moment of grief and solidarity.
For many fans — longtime supporters and newer followers alike — Malone’s words offered solace. In a season marked by sorrow for the Cowboys organization, the halftime show served as a public reminder that Kneeland’s number lives on beyond his life.
As lights glowed in AT&T Stadium, heads bowed in quiet reverence and cheers rang out in gratitude. In that moment, music and mourning found common ground — proving that tribute can transcend applause.