What Happened to Marshawn Kneeland? Girlfriend Catalina’s Final Plea Before Tragic Death

Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland has died at age 24 after an apparent suicide, police confirmed early Thursday. The promising young player was found dead with a self-inflicted gunshot wound following a late-night vehicle chase in Frisco, Texas. The tragedy came just days after Kneeland scored a special teams touchdown in the Cowboys’ loss to the Arizona Cardinals.

Authorities say Kneeland had fled from Texas Department of Public Safety troopers during a traffic stop and later crashed his vehicle before running on foot. While officers searched for him, they received word from his girlfriend, Catalina, who told dispatchers she feared he would “end it all.” Sadly, Kneeland was discovered dead a few hours later.

Inside the Final Hours: What Police and Catalina Revealed

According to Frisco police and the Texas Department of Public Safety, the chase began Wednesday night after Kneeland failed to stop for troopers over a traffic violation. The pursuit ended when officers found his vehicle wrecked minutes later, but Kneeland had already fled the scene on foot. During the ensuing search, dispatchers relayed a call from his girlfriend, Catalina, expressing deep concern for his safety.

Officers later confirmed that Kneeland had died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The NFL and the Dallas Cowboys issued statements mourning his loss, describing him as a “beloved teammate” and extending condolences to Catalina and his family. The Cowboys’ statement read, “Our thoughts and prayers regarding Marshawn are with his girlfriend Catalina and his family.”

In a heartbreaking statement, Kneeland’s agent Jonathan 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.”

Reactions From the NFL and Loved Ones

The news sent shockwaves through the sports world. The NFL released a statement offering counseling and support resources to the Cowboys organization, emphasizing the need for mental health awareness across the league. Miami Dolphins receivers coach Robert Prince, who worked with Kneeland in Dallas, broke down in tears during his media session, recalling the player’s positive attitude and work ethic.

Kneeland’s former college coach at Western Michigan, Lance Taylor, called the loss “devastating,” remembering the defensive end’s “infectious energy and smile.” He added, “His leadership and passion left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him.”

Two of Kneeland’s current Cowboys teammates, Dak Prescott and Solomon Thomas, have both lost siblings to suicide and continue to advocate for suicide prevention efforts. Prescott’s foundation has previously funded mental health programs for athletes, while Thomas’ nonprofit focuses on awareness after the death of his sister Ella—who was the same age as Kneeland.

A Rising Career Cut Short

Marshawn Kneeland, a Grand Rapids, Michigan native, was a second-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft out of Western Michigan. Known for his relentless energy and humility, he earned his first career sack in this year’s season opener against the Philadelphia Eagles. Kneeland’s recent blocked punt recovery for a touchdown was one of the few highlights in the Cowboys’ Week 9 loss to the Cardinals.

His career was on an upward trajectory after overcoming early injuries, including a knee issue that sidelined him during his rookie season. Off the field, he was known for his devotion to family — wearing a necklace containing his late mother’s ashes during games — and for his close relationship with Catalina, who often supported him publicly at Cowboys events.

His death serves as a sobering reminder of the mental health struggles that can affect even the most promising young athletes. Marshawn Kneeland’s story has already sparked renewed calls across the NFL for increased mental health resources and open dialogue around emotional well-being.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What happened to Marshawn Kneeland?

Marshawn Kneeland died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound after evading police in Frisco, Texas. Authorities ruled his death a suicide.

Q2: What did Marshawn Kneeland’s girlfriend say?

His girlfriend, Catalina, called 911 to report that she feared he would “end it all.” She had been worried for his safety shortly before police found his body.

Q3: How old was Marshawn Kneeland when he died?

He was 24 years old at the time of his death.

Q4: What team did Marshawn Kneeland play for?

He was a defensive end for the Dallas Cowboys, drafted in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft out of Western Michigan.

Q5: What was Marshawn Kneeland’s last game performance?

In his final game, Kneeland recovered a blocked punt for a touchdown in the Cowboys’ 27-17 loss to the Arizona Cardinals.