INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - AUGUST 11: Marshawn Kneeland #94 of the Dallas Cowboys walks off the field during a preseason game against the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium on August 11, 2024 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Ric Tapia/Getty Images)
Marshawn Kneeland, a Dallas Cowboys defensive lineman, has died. He was 24, and in his second NFL season after a notable time at Western Michigan. His team confirmed the tragic news first, with more details on the cause of death surfacing hours later.
Marshawn Kneeland passed just days after recovering a blocked punt in the end zone for a touchdown in the Cowboys’ 27-17 loss to Arizona on Monday night, per the Associated Press. The Dallas Cowboys said Thursday that Kneeland died overnight. At the time of announcement, there were no other details on his death, and agent Jonathan Perzley had asked for privacy.
“I am shattered to confirm that my client and dearest friend Marshawn Kneeland passed away last night,” Perzley said. “Marshawn poured his heart into every snap, every practice and every moment on the field. To lose someone with his talent, spirit and goodness is a pain I can hardly put into words.”
Hours after the Kneeland’s death became public, ESPN reported more details allegedly from law enforcement. It appears that the 24-year-old NFL player died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound after a chase with police. Frisco (Texas) Police said its department responded to a request for assistance from the Department of Public Safety. Kneeland had allegedly evaded troopers in a pursuit, and the chase allegedl yentred the city late Wednesday night. Eventually troopers found the 24-year-old car crashed on Dallas Parkway, near Warren Parkway. However, he had fled the scene. Three hours into officers searching the area with a K-9 unit and drones, they located Kneeland with what seemed to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Officers reportedly had an inkling of Marshwan Kneeland having “expressed suicidal ideations,” as they had received that information during their search.
From the team: “Marshawn was a beloved teammate and member of our organization,” the Cowboys said. “Our thoughts and prayers regarding Marshawn are with his girlfriend Catalina and his family.”
Marshawn Kneeland was a second-round draft pick in 2024. His rookie season was off to a promising start before he was sidelined for five games by a knee injury. Kneeland had his first career sack in the season opener this season against Philadelphia Eagles. He played in seven games this season, missing two with an ankle injury.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic news of the passing of Cowboys’ Marshawn Kneeland,” the NFL said. “We have been in contact with the Cowboys and have offered support and counseling resources.”
Associated Press contributed to this report via AP Newsroom.
