The Dallas Cowboys community is mourning the sudden loss of defensive end Marshawn Kneeland, who was found dead early Thursday morning in Frisco, Texas. He was 24 years old.
According to the Frisco Police Department, Kneeland’s death is being investigated as a suspected suicide. Authorities reported that shortly before midnight on November 5, local officers began assisting the Texas Department of Public Safety in locating a vehicle that had evaded state troopers during a pursuit. The vehicle was later discovered crashed along Dallas Parkway. Kneeland was identified as the driver, and police confirmed he was found deceased at 1:31 a.m. The official cause of death will be determined by the Collin County Medical Examiner’s Office.
The Cowboys announced the news Thursday morning, describing Kneeland as “a beloved teammate and member of our organization.” His agent, Jonathan Perzley, confirmed the death in a statement, saying, “I am shattered to confirm that my client and dearest friend Marshawn Kneeland passed away last night… He poured his heart into every snap, every practice, and every moment on the field.”
A second-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft out of Western Michigan, Kneeland had quickly earned respect within the Cowboys’ locker room. Just days earlier, on November 3, he celebrated a career milestone — scoring his first NFL touchdown after recovering a blocked punt during a “Monday Night Football” matchup against the Arizona Cardinals.
Tributes poured in across the league. The NFL and NFL Players Association issued statements expressing condolences and offering support to the Cowboys organization and Kneeland’s family. His former college coach, Lance Taylor of Western Michigan, called him “a remarkable young man whose energy, smile, and leadership were infectious.”
Kneeland’s passing has left teammates, coaches, and fans heartbroken. The Cowboys organization said grief counselors and mental health support are being made available.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, help is available. In the U.S., call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org for free, confidential support 24/7.
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