Dallas Cowboys Defensive End Marshawn Kneeland Dies by Suicide After Police Chase
Frisco, TX, November 6, 2025 — Marshawn Kneeland, a 24-year-old defensive end for the Dallas Cowboys, died early Thursday morning from a self-inflicted gunshot wound following a police chase, officials confirmed.
The incident began late Wednesday night when Texas Department of Public Safety troopers attempted to pull over Kneeland for a traffic violation. According to reports, Kneeland did not stop and led authorities on a pursuit that was later joined by the Frisco Police Department.
During the chase, officers lost sight of Kneeland’s vehicle. When found, the vehicle appeared to have been involved in an accident. Upon further search of the surrounding area, Frisco Police located Kneeland deceased at approximately 1:31 a.m.
Frisco Police Department stated, “Initial reports indicated that a male subject, later identified as 24-year-old Marshawn Kneeland of Plano, Texas, fled the scene on foot. Officers established a perimeter and initiated a search of the area with the assistance of the FPD K-9 and drone units. During the course of the search, officers received information that Kneeland had expressed suicidal ideations. Kneeland was later located deceased with what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound.”
Earlier that night at 11:40 p.m., police had responded to a welfare concern call at Kneeland’s residence in Plano but did not make contact with anyone at the time, according to a Plano Police Department spokesperson.
Kneeland was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the 2024 NFL Draft’s second round out of Western Michigan University. He was known for his physicality and potential as a defensive end on the Cowboys roster, with many looking forward to a promising career in the NFL.
The Cowboys organization has yet to release an official statement regarding Kneeland’s death. The NFL community has since expressed shock and grief over the tragic loss of one of its young athletes.
This heartbreaking incident has brought attention to the importance of mental health and support systems within professional sports, especially for young players under intense pressure.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the full circumstances surrounding the event. The Dallas Cowboys and fans mourn the loss of Kneeland, remembering both his talent on the field and the young life cut tragically short.