Mother of Slain Cowboys’ Player Forgives Intoxicated Teammate for Death

DALLAS (AP) — The sentencing phase of former Dallas Cowboys player Josh Brent's intoxication manslaughter trial has begun.

The one-time defensive tackle could be sentenced to up to 20 years in prison for last winter's drunken car crash that killed his friend and teammate, linebacker Jerry Brown. He could also receive only probation.

Among those who may address the court Thursday is Brown's mother, Stacey Jackson. She has said in interviews that she forgives Brent.

Brent and Brown were teammates at the University of Illinois before Brown was signed to the Cowboys' practice squad the season he was killed. Brent played in all 12 Cowboys game that season before the crash in December 2012.

Prosecutors say Brent's blood alcohol content after the crash was more than twice the state's legal limit for driving.