Dallas Cowboys Defensive End Marshawn Kneeland Dies at 24; Dak Prescott, Solomon Thomas Speak Out
The Dallas Cowboys and the broader NFL community were struck with profound sadness following the death of defensive end Marshawn Kneeland on November 5, 2025. Kneeland, a promising player who was only 24 years old, died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound after a police pursuit in Texas, marking a tragic end to the rising star’s life and career.
Details of the Tragedy
<pAuthorities were involved in a pursuit after Kneeland fled from a traffic stop in the Dallas suburb of Frisco shortly after 10:30 PM. His vehicle was later discovered crashed and abandoned on Dallas Parkway. After the chase was called off, law enforcement conducted a wide search with drones and canine units but ultimately found Kneeland deceased from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The death is being investigated as a suicide.
A Beloved Teammate and Rising Star
Marshawn Kneeland was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft out of Western Michigan University, where he earned second-team Mid-American Conference honors in 2023. During his two seasons with the Cowboys, Kneeland played 18 games and started four, recording 26 tackles, four quarterback hits, and one sack.
Notably, during a Monday Night Football game shortly before his death, Kneeland made a pivotal play by recovering a blocked punt in the end zone to score his first career touchdown, sparking the team’s momentum despite a subsequent loss to the Arizona Cardinals.
Official Statements and Reactions
The Dallas Cowboys issued a heartfelt statement acknowledging the loss: “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 during this incredibly difficult time.”
Kneeland’s agent, Jonathan Perzley, expressed deep grief, highlighting his client’s spirit and dedication on and off the field. “To lose someone with his talent, spirit, and goodness is a pain I can hardly put into words,” he said, asking for privacy and compassion for those mourning Kneeland’s loss.
Messages from Teammates Dak Prescott and Solomon Thomas
Among the many tributes pouring in, star quarterback Dak Prescott and defensive lineman Solomon Thomas penned emotional messages reflecting on Kneeland’s character and impact. Prescott described Kneeland as a “valuable teammate with an incredible work ethic,” while Thomas remembered him as a “young player with immense promise and a bright future cut tragically short.” Both expressed condolences and emphasized the importance of mental health awareness within and beyond the sports world.
Mental Health Awareness Spotlight
The tragic circumstances of Kneeland’s death have renewed conversations about mental health support for athletes. Experts highlight the pressures faced by professional players and the critical need for accessible mental health resources and open dialogue to prevent similar losses.
Marshawn Kneeland’s Journey
Born July 8, 2001, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Kneeland played high school football as a linebacker and tight end before committing to Western Michigan University. Over five seasons in college, he accumulated 148 tackles and 13 sacks, earning respect as a determined and skilled player. His unlikely rise from a less-recruited high school athlete to an NFL professional inspired many.
Community and Legacy
The Dallas Cowboys organization and fans continue to mourn Kneeland’s passing, honoring his contributions on the field and his character off it. His legacy serves as a somber reminder of the human challenges athletes face alongside their public careers.