Solomon Thomas’ Mom Speaks On Tragedy That Shook The Cowboys

Martha Thomas has spent years turning unimaginable loss into life-saving purpose, and now, that mission is being recognized on one of the NFL’s biggest stages. The mother of Solomon Thomas, Martha, was recently spotlighted by JCPenney as part of its initiative honoring the mothers behind some of the league’s most impactful players. But for Martha, the recognition goes far beyond motherhood. It shines a light on her tireless mental health advocacy and the work she’s built through The Defensive Line, the nonprofit she co-founded in honor of her late daughter, Ella.

“It feels really good to be recognized by JCPenney for moms,” Martha told The Blast exclusively over the phone. “So many times we’re there, but we don’t get the recognition."

She continued, "[JCPenney has] done a beautiful job making us feel special, like we belong at the table, really highlighting the support that we’ve given to our sons and the mission behind all of our work.”

As a respected voice in the mental health space, Martha says the biggest obstacle remains fear, especially when it comes to young people. “These conversations are hard,” she explained. “A mom said to me recently, ‘Martha, do you know how scary it is having these conversations?’ And I said, ‘Yes, but that’s why we need to have them.’”

According to Martha, listening without judgment can be life-saving. “We need to hear what those answers are. We need to learn to listen and guide people to the resources they need,” she said. “These conversations, even for young kids, can save a life.”

That same philosophy has shaped her son, who has grown into a respected leader inside the Dallas Cowboys locker room. “He’s just a good human,” Martha said. “When the Cowboys suffered a terrible loss this year, Solomon stepped up. He was vulnerable. He talked to the players, the coaches, and the media.”

The team was grieving the devastating loss of teammate Marshawn Kneeland, who tragically died in November 2025 following a self-inflicted gunshot wound after a high-speed police chase. The loss sent shockwaves through the organization, prompting tributes and deep reflection.

“Solomon helped people understand that these are conversations we have to have,” Martha said. “So people aren’t left in the dark, so they can find hope, connection, and joy.”

Martha went on to say how one of her greatest hopes is that Solomon continues leading with authenticity as he grows, both as an athlete and as a man. “He doesn’t hide behind any façade,” she said. “He’s a young man who plays football, that’s what he does. But who he is and the way he talks to people, especially youth, creates powerful, meaningful, and sometimes life-saving connections.”

Martha Thomas wasn’t the only NFL mom celebrated by JCPenney as part of its campaign spotlighting the women behind some of the league’s most influential players. The retailer also honored the mother of Kelvin Beachum, recognizing her role in shaping the values, discipline, and leadership that Beachum has carried throughout his NFL career.

“When I tell you this has been a phenomenal experience. Extraordinary,” Culetta Beachum told The Blast of her red-carpet experience. “I don’t look for recognition. I’ve always been behind the scenes, making sure the children were taken care of.”

The opportunity, she admitted, almost didn’t feel real at first. “I kept asking, ‘Is this real? Is this JCPenney?’” she laughed. “When things started unfolding, I said, ‘This is real.’ And I was just humbled.”

Seeing mental health advocacy highlighted during high-visibility events like NFL Honors has been deeply meaningful for Martha. “It’s beautiful. It’s powerful,” she said. “I’m proud that the NFL is embracing mental health.”

And for anyone struggling right now, her message is simple and urgent. “It’s okay to ask for help,” Martha said. “And listening to someone who needs help is something we all need to do.”