Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland, 24, died from what authorities believe was a self-inflicted gunshot wound early Thursday morning in Frisco, Texas, following a police pursuit and vehicle crash, the Texas Department of Public Safety confirmed.
The Chase and What Happened
Police tried pulling over Kneeland’s vehicle around 10:33 p.m. Wednesday, but he didn’t stop, leading to a chase through the area. Officers eventually lost sight of his car and called off the pursuit. Later, they found the vehicle abandoned after it crashed on the southbound side of Dallas Parkway. Frisco Police initially reported that Kneeland had run from the crash scene. His body was discovered at 1:31 a.m.
Statements from Team and Family
The Cowboys released a statement expressing deep sadness: “Marshawn was a beloved teammate and a valued member of our organization. Our thoughts and prayers are with his girlfriend Catalina and his family.”
The Plano Police Department told The Athletic that officers had conducted a welfare check at an address connected to Kneeland around 11:40 p.m. Wednesday, but found no one there.
Through the Dallas Morning News, Kneeland’s family shared their grief: “We are devastated by this tremendous loss and still coming to terms with our grief. Marshawn was making an impact on the field with the Dallas Cowboys, but even more importantly, he was a devoted son, brother, uncle, cousin, nephew, grandson, and friend. His kindness, determination, humility, and love touched every life he encountered. His spirit lives on in countless hearts he inspired.”
Football Career and Recent Success
The Cowboys picked Kneeland in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft. During his sophomore season, he played in seven games, starting three of them, and tallied 12 tackles plus one sack.
Only days before the team’s bye week, Kneeland hit a career milestone when he scored his first NFL touchdown by recovering a blocked punt in the end zone against the Arizona Cardinals.
Originally from Grand Rapids, Michigan, Kneeland grew up in western Michigan. He starred as both linebacker and tight end at Godwin Heights High School in Wyoming, Michigan, before moving on to Western Michigan University. There, he earned second-team All-MAC recognition in 2023.
Recent Loss and Historical Context
Just two months before Dallas drafted him, Kneeland lost his mother, Wendy, unexpectedly. Speaking at her memorial service in March 2024, he said, “Growing up, she was always there for me, attending all my games no matter the cold. It’s incredibly tough; something you never anticipate.”
Kneeland becomes the first active NFL player to die during a season since 2018, when Indianapolis Colts linebacker Edwin Jackson was killed in a vehicle incident. The Cowboys have faced similar tragedies before—linebacker Jerry Brown died in a car crash in 2012 shortly after joining their practice squad. In November 2020, Cowboys strength and conditioning coach Markus Paul passed away after a medical emergency at the team’s facility.
Getting Help
Anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts or emotional distress can find support. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or visit 988lifeline.org.
