Texas police confirmed the death of former Dallas Cowboys running back Marion Barber III after discovering his unresponsive body on Wednesday.
Frisco police found the athlete in his apartment and reported that the cause of death is unknown.
Local media outlets relayed that a welfare check was sent out for Barber after neighbors noticed a water leak coming from his apartment. “Frisco Police responded to a welfare concern at an apartment believed to be leased by Marion Barber,” police spokesperson Joshua Lovell said, according to Star-Telegram. “Frisco Police along with the Collin County Medical Examiner’s Office are investigating an unattended death at the location.”
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Following the confirmation of his death, his former team gave their sympathies in a statement. “We are heartbroken by the tragic death of Marion Barber III,” the team said.
“Marion was an old-school, hard-nosed football player who ran with the will to win every down. He had a passion for the game and love for his coaches and teammates. Our hearts go out to Marion’s family and friends during this difficult time.”
In addition to the Dallas Cowboys, the NFL issued a statement that addressed Barber’s passing. The league wrote, “The NFL mourns the tragic loss of Marion Barber III and we extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.”
Remembering the life of Marion Barber III and his NFL career
After his retirement, his personal struggles became more apparent. In 2014, the running back was detained by police and taken to a hospital for a mental health evaluation.
In 2018, he was believed to have damaged cars in his residency in Frisco, Texas, and was arrested the following year on two accounts misdemeanor counts of criminal mischief. However, many choose to remember Barber for his talents on the field. As a fan favorite nicknamed “Marion the Barbarian,” his legacy will go down in history.
The athlete had a seven-year NFL career, six of which he played with the Cowboys from 2005 until 2011. He played his final season of professional football with the Chicago Bears.
Coming from Minnesota, he was drafted by Dallas in 2005 and was named to the Pro Bowl in 2007. In that season he had 975 yards rushing and 10 touchdowns and continued working with the Chicago Bears until 2011.
After spending one season with the Bears, his career was concluded with a whopping 4,780 yards and 53 touchdowns on 1,156 carries in 99 games. Despite his time in Chicago being limited, the Bears addressed his passing and were disappointed to hear the news about their former running back.
“We are saddened to learn of the passing of former Bears RB Marion Barber III,” the team said. “Our hearts go out to his family & friends.”
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