FOXBOROUGH — At Raymond James Stadium, the New England Patriots paused in silence to honor Marshawn Kneeland, a Dallas Cowboys player who recently took his life. This tragic event serves as a reminder that mental health struggles affect many athletes, including those within the Patriots organization.
Christian Gonzalez, a defensive back for the Patriots, faced a similar loss when his childhood friend, Keith Miller III, died by suicide last year. They were both football players who started at Colorado before moving on to different schools. Gonzalez is now dedicated to promoting mental health awareness through the KyleCares Foundation, which aims to create supportive environments for young people facing mental health challenges.
Gonzalez has used his platform to honor his friend, even featuring Miller’s name on his shoes during the NFL’s “My Cause, My Cleats” initiative. He expressed deep sorrow over Kneeland’s death, addressing the weight such news carries for those who knew him.
Another Patriot, Jahlani Tavai, reflected on his former Hawaii teammate, Scheyenne Sanitoa, who also died by suicide. Tavai shared the disturbing reality that often, there are no signs or notes left behind, leaving friends and family with unanswered questions.
Milton Williams had met Kneeland through professional gatherings and noted the unseen struggles athletes may face. “You never know what people are going through,” he said, encouraging others to cherish every moment.
Recent statistics shed light on this issue. A study from Columbia University reveals that the suicide rate among athletes has doubled in the past two decades. Dr. Mena Mirhom, a sports psychiatrist, points out that teams are still figuring out the best ways to support their athletes. Creating an open and accepting culture is a crucial starting point.
“Teams must foster an environment where players can express vulnerabilities without fear,” Mirhom explained. The Patriots have worked to prioritize mental well-being by having a psychiatrist available to players at any time, emphasizing that seeking help is not a sign of weakness.
As Williams pointed out, many struggle to acknowledge their feelings due to societal pressures. “It’s a man thing,” he said. “We often feel we have to tough it out.” Gonzalez is working to change this narrative, encouraging teammates to reach out and openly discuss their feelings. “It’s okay not to feel okay,” he emphasizes.
Tavai believes that tragedies like Kneeland’s can help reinforce the importance of checking in on one another. Asking simple questions like “How are you doing?” can have a significant impact.
In a world where mental health issues are often stigmatized, the athletic community is beginning to take steps toward support. As Gonzalez and his teammates advocate for this crucial dialogue, they hope to inspire others to remember they’re not alone and that help is available.
If you or someone you know is struggling, support is just a call away. Reach out to the Samaritans Statewide Hotline at 1-877-870-HOPE(4673) or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988. Let’s continue the conversation and foster an environment of support.
Read more about mental health in sports from Athletes for Hope.
