Michigan defensive line coach Lou Esposito had a strong relationship with the late Dallas Cowboys defensive lineman Marshawn Kneeland, who died earlier this week due to a self-inflicted gunshot wound , according to authorities.

Esposito coached Kneeland, 24, throughout the player’s time at Western Michigan from 2019 to 2023. Esposito was the team’s defensive coordinator and defensive line coach.

“I am crushed at this moment and my heart and the hearts of Marshawn’s family, teammates and coaches are shattered,” Esposito said in a statement shared by the Michigan football program Thursday. “Marshawn Kneeland meant a great deal to me and I have so many fond memories of growing with him throughout my time as his coach. We were planning to get together this weekend during his visit back hom

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