Former Cowboys RB Marion Barber found dead at 38 in apartment
Former Dallas Cowboys running back Marion Barber died on Wednesday, according to Clarence Hill of the Fort Worth Star Telegram.
He was 38.
Barber was reportedly found dead in his apartment by Frisco, Texas, police, who were there on a “welfare concern.” Specifics surrounding his death are not yet known.
"We are heartbroken by the tragic death of Marion Barber III," the Cowboys said in a statement. "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."
— Dallas Cowboys (@dallascowboys) June 1, 2022
Former Cowboys head coach Jason Garrett posted a heartfelt thread honoring Barber in Twitter on Wednesday night.
His physical style and relentless spirit were infectious! Showed up in how he practiced! Showed up in how he played in games! It was impossible not to notice #24! He leaped off the tape! As great a player as Marion was, he was an even better person.
— Jason Garrett (@JasonGarrett) June 2, 2022
He would run through the wall for you and he always had your back! I absolutely love Marion Barber and will miss him very much! Brill and I are so saddened by this news and extend our sincere condolences to the Barber family and all who loved him.
— Jason Garrett (@JasonGarrett) June 2, 2022
The Plymouth, Minnesota, native was selected by the Cowboys in the fourth round of the 2005 draft. He ran for more than 4,300 yards and had 47 rushing touchdowns over the next six seasons with the team. Barber was selected to the Pro Bowl in 2007 after racking up a career-high 975 rushing yards and 10 rushing touchdowns.
Barber finished his career with a single season with the Chicago Bears in 2011.
We are saddened to learn of the passing of former Bears RB Marion Barber III. Our hearts go out to his family & friends.
— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) June 2, 2022
Barber had several legal issues since his playing career ended. He was detained by police in 2014 and taken to a hospital for a mental health evaluation, and was arrested in 2019 on a pair of misdemeanor criminal mischief charges.