Former Dallas Cowboys Star Marion Barber Found Dead In His Texas Apartment

Former Dallas Cowboys and Chicago Bears running back Marion Barber III was reportedly found dead in his apartment in Texas on Wednesday.

"We are heartbroken by the tragic death of Marion Barber III," the Cowboys shared 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." Barber made it as a Pro Bowler in 2007 with the Cowboys. The 38-year-old athlete, who was popularly known for his wild running skills, would have celebrated his birthday on June 10.

According to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, the cause of death was not immediately clear. The authorities did a welfare check on Barber's apartment after a water leak was reported, and police found his body there after forcing their way inside.

"Frisco Police responded to a welfare concern at an apartment believed to be leased by Marion Barber," police spokesperson Joshua Lovell said. "Frisco Police along with the Collin County Medical Examiner's Office are investigating an unattended death at the location."

Barber, son of former New York Jets running back Marion Barber, had quite some problems after his playing days. In 2014, Barber was detained for a mental health evaluation. Meanwhile, in 2019, he was arrested for criminal mischief due to a 2018 incident in which a witness accused him of damaging two vehicles while he was running in Frisco.

Former Cowboys receiver Dez Bryant also previously expressed on Twitter how he could not even enjoy watching old highlights of Barber due to the player's dire state. "As I watch this video and me knowing exactly how Marion barber life is going right now today is why I built @personalcorner .... I can't even enjoy it because he's down and out bad...we are just a stat and moments to most people..."

With the famous nickname "Marion the Barbarian," Barber played for the Cowboys from 2005 to 2010 while for the Chicago Bears in 2011. He carried the ball 1,156 times for 4,780 yards and 53 touchdowns during his entire career. Barber retired from the National Football League (NFL) before the beginning of the 2012 season.