How Did Marshawn Kneeland Die? Police Reveal Details on Cowboys DE’s Death

Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland has died at the age of 24. Police confirmed the tragic incident early Thursday, saying Kneeland died by suicide after a welfare call at his Plano, Texas home.

The shocking news comes just days after Kneeland scored his first NFL touchdown, leaving teammates, fans, and the football community devastated. Authorities and the team have shared statements mourning his passing and outlining the circumstances of his death.

Police Statement and Details Surrounding Marshawn Kneeland’s Death

Plano Police said officers responded to a “welfare concern” at Kneeland’s home around 11:40 p.m. on Wednesday night but did not find anyone there. Hours later, the Texas Department of Public Safety reported that state troopers tried to stop a vehicle for a traffic violation on the Dallas North Tollway. The vehicle, believed to be driven by Kneeland, fled and was later found abandoned after a crash on Dallas Parkway near the Cowboys’ headquarters in Frisco.

During a search of the nearby area, officers discovered Kneeland deceased from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Police confirmed there were no signs of foul play, and the investigation remains open. Officials have described it as an apparent suicide.

The Cowboys organization released a statement expressing heartbreak over the loss of their young defensive end: “It is with extreme sadness that the Dallas Cowboys share that Marshawn Kneeland tragically passed away this morning. Marshawn was a beloved teammate and member of our organization. Our thoughts and prayers are with his girlfriend, Catalina, and his family.”

Career and Legacy of Marshawn Kneeland

Kneeland was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and played college football at Western Michigan before being selected by the Cowboys in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Known for his high energy and work ethic, he appeared in 18 games—11 in his rookie season and seven this year—recording 26 tackles, four quarterback hits, and one sack.

Just days before his passing, Kneeland scored his first NFL touchdown by recovering a blocked punt in the end zone during the Cowboys’ loss to the Arizona Cardinals. His performance was celebrated by teammates and fans, marking what many thought would be the start of a promising career.

Reactions and Tributes from the Football Community

Kneeland’s agent, Jonathan Perzley, described him as a fighter and a deeply kind person. “I am shattered to confirm that my client and dearest friend Marshawn Kneeland passed away last night,” Perzley said in a statement. “He poured his heart into every snap, every practice, and every moment on the field. My heart aches for his family, teammates, and everyone who loved him.”

The NFL also released a statement saying it was “deeply saddened” by the loss and had offered grief counseling resources to the Cowboys organization. Players across the league have taken to social media to express condolences, reflecting on Kneeland’s character and positivity both on and off the field.

Kneeland’s death is a painful reminder of the importance of mental health support for athletes. His passion, talent, and drive will be remembered by teammates, fans, and the entire football community.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: How did Marshawn Kneeland die?

Police said Marshawn Kneeland died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound following a police welfare call and brief pursuit in Plano, Texas.

Q2: What did the Dallas Cowboys say about Marshawn Kneeland’s death?

The team released a statement expressing “extreme sadness” and called him a beloved teammate whose passing is a tremendous loss.

Q3: What was Marshawn Kneeland’s NFL career like?

Kneeland played in 18 games since joining the Cowboys in 2024, recording 26 tackles and one sack. He recently scored his first NFL touchdown on a blocked punt recovery.

Q4: Did police confirm the cause of death?

Yes, Plano Police confirmed it was an apparent suicide by gunshot, with no signs of foul play.

Q5: What support has the NFL provided after Kneeland’s death?

The NFL said it is offering counseling and mental health resources to the Dallas Cowboys and players across the league.