Former Cowboys RB Marion Barber found dead at 38

Former NFL running back Marion Barber, who played with the Dallas Cowboys from 2005 to 2010, has been found dead in his apartment by police from Frisco, Texas.

The 2007 Pro Bowler was 38 years old at the time of his passing. The circumstances of his death are as yet unknown, and there is an ongoing investigation into the matter.

Cowboys extend condolences

The Cowboys expressed their grief at the loss of their former player in a statement.

“We are heartbroken by the tragic death of Marion Barber III. Marion was an old-school, hard-nosed football player who ran with the will to win every down. He has 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.”

Marion Barber: Minnesota standout

Dallas selected Barber in the fourth round of the 2005 NFL Draft as the 109th overall pick, after he recorded impressive numbers at the University of Minnesota.

Barber left the Cowboys after six seasons with them, then moved to the Chicago Bears where he signed a two-year, $5 million contract. He spent his last year as a professional football player with the Bears, then announced his retirement in March 2012.

After leaving football he struggled with mental health problems and had run-ins with the police.