Bills Rookie Donates His First NFL Paycheck to Support Marshawn Kneeland’s Family

November 7, 2025 – Buffalo, New York

In a heartwarming act of compassion, Buffalo Bills rookie cornerback Maxwell Hairston has reportedly donated his entire first NFL paycheck to the family of Marshawn Kneeland, the Dallas Cowboys defensive end who tragically passed away at just 24 years old.

According to ESPN, Hairston made the donation quietly through the NFL Players’ Family Assistance Fund, not intending for the story to reach the public. However, a teammate revealed the gesture during a post-practice meeting, leaving many in the Bills locker room deeply moved.

Hairston said in a brief statement:

“I never played alongside Marshawn, but we shared the same dream — to make it here, to the NFL. We grew up believing in the same game, the same discipline, the same brotherhood. His loss reminds me how fragile life is, even for the strongest of us.”

A Bond Forged Through the Game

Though Hairston and Kneeland never shared the same team, they crossed paths several times in college football — both known for their fierce defensive play and quiet leadership. In an old tweet from 2023, Kneeland once praised Hairston after a game, writing: “That kid hits hard. Respect real defense.”

Now, two years later, Hairston honors that same man with a selfless tribute that reflects the true spirit of the sport.

One of Hairston’s teammates commented:

“Max didn’t do it for attention. He did it because that’s who he is — and because in the NFL, we’re still one big family no matter what colors we wear.”

Humanity Amid Heartbreak

As the NFL community continues to mourn Marshawn Kneeland’s untimely passing, Hairston’s gesture stands as a rare and touching reminder that the league’s greatest moments aren’t always measured in yards or touchdowns, but in acts of kindness and unity.