NFL Player Marshawn Kneeland Dies at 24
The Dallas Cowboys and the broader NFL community are grieving the loss of defensive end Marshawn Kneeland, who passed away at 24.
The team announced the news early morning on November 6. Law enforcement discovered Kneeland dead from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound in Frisco, Texas.
The Texas Department of Public Safety reported that Kneeland was involved in a police chase late Wednesday, following his refusal to stop for a traffic violation on the Dallas North Tollway. The chase concluded when his vehicle was found crashed and abandoned; he was later found deceased near the crash site.
Kneeland, drafted by the Cowboys in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft, had recently scored his first NFL touchdown by recovering a blocked punt in the end zone during a nationally televised game.
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones described Kneeland as “very unique in his passion for the game” and expressed deep sorrow over the loss of someone “just getting started.”
The organization announced plans to honor Kneeland for the remainder of the season with helmet decals and memorial T-shirts during upcoming games.
Friends, family, and teammates are dealing with both grief and a sense of helplessness, particularly given previous signs that Kneeland might have been struggling with mental health issues. His agent mentioned that Kneeland often kept his inner thoughts private, highlighting the silent burden some young athletes face.
Following this tragedy, the team has provided counseling resources for players and staff. The NFL also held a league-wide moment of silence before every game the following week.
If you or someone you know needs help, please call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.
