Dak Prescott postgame comments: Cowboys QB shares powerful message on mental health, Marshawn Kneeland’s impact

1 hour ago 2

Playing with a collective, heavy heart, the Dallas Cowboys delivered one of their most spirited and dominant performances of the season in a 33-16 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders Monday night. The game was the team's first outing since the tragic death of defensive end Marshawn Kneeland on Nov. 6. Prior to kickoff, players and coaches, wore tribute t-shirts and bowed their heads during a moment of silence.

Facing adversity, the Cowboys played with focus and intensity. Dak Prescott was exceptional, passing for 268 yards and a season-high four touchdowns, The Cowboys' offense, which had sputtered in recent weeks, found balance and rhythm. While Dallas' defense played with a relentless fury, embodying the spirited nature teammates had promised to deliver. Prescott's mention brotherhood during his pregame speech to the team, and the Cowboys had a dedicated on-field effort in Marshawn Kneeland’s memory.

Following the final whistle, Prescott, who has often been open about coping with personal loss, provided insight into the team's motivation and the therapeutic power of football. Speaking to reporters, the quarterback articulated the delicate balance between grieving and competing: "It was a blessing to be out on the field, this is where healing happens for me."

He also reflected on Kneeland's memorable demeanor, noting the defensive end's signature phrase that the team is now carrying forward. "I know it's been noted his saying was 'One Love,' I think you just felt that. You felt that aura, you felt that demeanor, you felt him carry that and that's everything that he did."

After the game, Prescott shared some words on SportsCenter with Scott Van Pelt.

Dak Prescott postgame interview

In his postgame interview with Scott Van Pelt, Prescott opened up about mental health.

"It's about being vulnerable. To show courage, you have to show some kind of weakness," Prescott said. "This game, it's bigger. It's about life and these connections that we're making, the brotherhoods, the friendships. We have to be there for each other."

"It's about being vulnerable. To show courage, you have to show some kind of weakness." ❤️

Dak Prescott talks to @notthefakeSVP after the Cowboys first win following Marshawn Kneeland's death. pic.twitter.com/k8zTYb20d8

— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) November 18, 2025

"Marshawn was such a kind, loving, sweet soul that it hurt everybody," Prescott said. "But we're able to face that grief and use that as a strength for us moving forward."

MORE: Cowboys honor Marshawn Kneeland with T-shirts, locker ahead of Raiders game

Dak Prescott mental health foundation

The Faith Fight Finish (FFF) Foundation, established by Prescott, is a charitable organization dedicated to empowering individuals, families, and communities to find strength through adversity. The foundation's name and mission are a tribute to his late mother, Peggy Prescott, who passed away from colon cancer, and its four core pillars reflect the personal tragedies he has overcome.

The mental health and suicide prevention pillar is central to the FFF Foundation's work, particularly since Prescott lost his brother, Jace, to suicide in 2020. This profound loss spurred Prescott to become one of the NFL's most visible advocates for mental health, often writing "Ask 4 Help" on his wristbands during games as a reminder of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. The foundation’s goal in this area is to champion those who battle mental illness by helping them know they are not alone. 

Dak Prescott has always been one of the strongest voices for mental health in the NFL.

I can’t imagine what he or that locker room is feeling right now.

Check on your people. Tell them you love them. Life is fragile.

Once again, RIP Marshawn Kneeland ❤️ You were loved. Always. https://t.co/qfRV42FZ6c pic.twitter.com/KwVx4wtkI9

— DakMuse (@DakMuse4) November 6, 2025

Beyond just mental health, the FFF Foundation commits resources to colon cancer research, bridging the gap between law enforcement and communities, and offering assistance to those facing life-challenging hardships. This holistic approach ensures that the foundation addresses both the physical and emotional battles that individuals face.

Dak Prescott taking a long moment here before Monday Night Football. Have to think he said some words for his late mother, Peggy, who passed away from colon cancer 12 years ago today. pic.twitter.com/lgUnA2EWBm

— Jeff Kolb (@JeffKolbFOX4) November 3, 2025

Through these initiatives, the FFF Foundation provides tangible support by co-sponsoring educational programs, holding events like the annual Faith Fight Finish Gala to raise funds, and working to normalize conversations about emotional well-being. Prescott's promise in this work is to make his brother's passing "a life taken to save millions," leveraging his own vulnerability and platform to encourage others to prioritize their mental health and seek the support they need. 

MORE: Why Cowboys WRs sat out first drive on Monday Night Football vs. Raiders

Dak Prescott jersey patch

Prescott won the prestigious Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award for the 2022 season. This award is the league's highest honor and recognizes an NFL player for their excellence on the field and their profound commitment to philanthropy and community impact off the field.

The NFL allows every active player who has won the WPMOY award to wear a special patch -- shaped like the award's trophy -- on their uniform for the remainder of their career. It serves as a permanent mark recognizing their outstanding humanitarian efforts.

The patch is a unique distinction shared by only a handful of active players, signifying Dak's lasting commitment to community service.

MORE: Dak Prescott's jersey patch, explained

Read Entire Article