Former Cowboys RB Marion Barber Dies at age 38

Marion Barber was found dead in his apartment in Frisco, Texas on Wednesday.

The team announced Wednesday that police in Frisco, Texas, found Marion Barber, the former cowboy, and bear, dead in his apartment while running back. He was 38 years old. The cause of death is currently unknown.

“We are heartbroken by the tragic death of Marion Barber III,” the statement said. “Marion was an old-school, hard-nosed football player who ran with a desire to win every down. He had a passion for the game and a love for his coaches and teammates. Ours was through this difficult time. Hearts go out to Marion’s family and friends.”

A native of Plymouth, Minn., Barber was selected in the fourth round of the 2005 Draft by the Cowboys after a prolific Minnesota college career. He immediately became a key offensive player for Dallas, throwing a total of 33 touchdowns in his first three seasons.

He made his first Pro Bowl appearance in 2007, gaining 1,257 yards in a 12-touchdown scrimmage.

Problems soon came to Barber after the end of his football career. He was detained by the authorities in 2014 and taken to the hospital for a mental health evaluation. In 2019, he was arrested on two counts of felony charges after allegedly damaging two cars while driving through Frisco.

Barber appealed to fans for his hard running style and constant effort, frequently breaking tackles and vying for extra yards. He ended his career with the Bears in 2011, his last season in the NFL, before announcing his retirement in March 2012.