Police in Frisco, Texas, confirmed that Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland was found dead early Thursday morning of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. The 24-year-old was discovered hours after evading authorities in a vehicle chase and fleeing on foot following a crash.
Authorities said Kneeland had failed to stop for Texas Department of Public Safety troopers on Wednesday night over a traffic violation. Frisco police joined the pursuit, but officers later lost sight of the vehicle before locating it crashed a few minutes later. During the subsequent search, officers received information suggesting Kneeland might be in distress and potentially suicidal.
Police Describe Events Leading to Tragic Discovery
According to recordings archived by Broadcastify, dispatchers told officers that Kneeland’s acquaintances had received a group text message from him saying goodbye. One dispatcher said Kneeland’s girlfriend expressed deep concern, telling officers that he was armed, had a history of mental illness, and feared “he will end it all.”
Officers said they tried calling and texting Kneeland and even deployed a drone to locate him after the crash. His body was found roughly three hours later, though police did not disclose the specific location. The Frisco Police Department said it is investigating the death as a suicide.
NFL and Cowboys Community in Mourning
The Denver Broncos honored Kneeland with a moment of silence before Thursday night’s game against the Las Vegas Raiders, displaying his image on the scoreboard as fans and players stood in tribute.
Kneeland’s death comes just days after he recovered a blocked punt for a touchdown in the Cowboys’ 27–17 loss to the Arizona Cardinals. A 2024 second-round draft pick from Western Michigan University, he was in his second NFL season.
“I am shattered to confirm that my client and dearest friend Marshawn Kneeland passed away last night,” his agent, Jonathan Perzley, said in a statement. “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.”
Cowboys and NFL Issue Statements
The Dallas Cowboys released a statement describing Kneeland as a “beloved teammate and member of our organization.” The team extended condolences to his girlfriend, Catalina, and his family.
The NFL also expressed its condolences, saying in a statement, “We are deeply saddened by the tragic news of the passing of Cowboys’ Marshawn Kneeland. We have been in contact with the Cowboys and have offered support and counseling resources.”
Kneeland’s promising rookie season was interrupted by a knee injury that sidelined him for five games, but he made a strong return, earning his first career sack in the season opener against the Philadelphia Eagles. He appeared in seven games this season, missing two due to an ankle injury.
A Life Marked by Determination and Personal Loss
Kneeland’s journey to the NFL was shaped by both perseverance and personal tragedy. His mother, Wendy Kneeland, died suddenly while he was preparing for the draft. According to The Dallas Morning News, he carried her ashes in a necklace as a tribute after joining the Cowboys.
At Western Michigan, Kneeland had a standout senior year, recording a career-high 57 tackles and 4.5 sacks in nine games. “My heart is absolutely broken over the loss of Marshawn Kneeland,” said Western Michigan head coach Lance Taylor. “His leadership, energy, and smile were infectious, and he left a lasting impact on everyone in our program.”
Emotional Tributes Across the League
Miami Dolphins receivers coach Robert Prince, who coached Kneeland during his rookie year with Dallas, fought back tears while speaking to reporters. “We spent a lot of time together when he was injured and working out in the weight room,” Prince said. “He was a good kid — we’d share Michigan stories. I’m sorry to hear that about him.”
Tennessee Titans defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons, who has previously advocated for mental health awareness, expressed grief on social media. “It sucks seeing the news of our NFL brother,” Simmons wrote on X. “Even when someone is carrying the biggest smile, make sure to just check in on them. Don’t be afraid to ask for help — we all go through things we sometimes hide.”
Two of Kneeland’s Cowboys teammates, quarterback Dak Prescott and defensive lineman Solomon Thomas, have both lost siblings to suicide and run foundations to support mental health and suicide prevention. Thomas’ sister, Ella, was the same age as Kneeland.
Mental Health Awareness in Professional Sports
Kneeland’s death adds to ongoing conversations about the mental health challenges faced by athletes in high-pressure environments. NFL teams have recently expanded access to mental health professionals and counseling resources, following several high-profile cases of suicide and depression among current and former players.
As the league and fans mourn the loss of a rising star, many within the NFL community have called for renewed focus on supporting players beyond the field.
Editor’s Note:
This story discusses suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. In the U.S., call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, or visit 988lifeline.org. For international resources, visit iasp.info/suicidalthoughts.
Source: AP News – Cowboys’ Marshawn Kneeland found dead of apparent suicide at 24 after evading officers, police say
