Dallas Cowboys Player Marshawn Kneeland Dies at 24

At just 24 years old, Marshawn Kneeland’s life and promising career came to a sudden and tragic end. The Dallas Cowboys confirmed early on Thursday, November 6, 2025, that Kneeland had died. The Guardian Kneeland, selected in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft out of Western Michigan Broncos, was in his second season with Dallas and had begun to make his mark on the field. AP News

Early Life & Rise

Kneeland was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and played high school football at Godwin Heights. His athletic ability earned him a scholarship to Western Michigan, where he developed into a standout defensive lineman. In college, he earned second-team All-MAC honors in 2023. Wikipedia His professional dream came true when the Cowboys picked him 56th overall in 2024. Dallas Cowboys

Professional Highlights

As a young NFL player, Kneeland appeared in 18 games over his two seasons, recording 26 tackles and one sack. NFL.com A memorable moment came just days before his death: he recovered a blocked punt in the end zone for his first career TD in a game against the Arizona Cardinals, bringing huge emotion for him and the team. NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth

The Tragedy

Details of how Marshawn Kneeland died are both heartbreaking and still being clarified. According to law enforcement reports, Thursday morning his body was found in Frisco, Texas, after a vehicle pursuit that had reportedly started with a traffic violation. The Guardian The Texas Department of Public Safety and local police said his vehicle was found crashed and abandoned; Kneeland later was located and apparently died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. ESPN.com The death is being treated as an apparent suicide. AP News The Cowboys’ official statement noted only that he “tragically passed away” and offered condolences to his girlfriend, Catalina, and his family. Dallas Cowboys

Impact & Legacy

The news has rippled through the NFL community, triggering tributes from teammates, former coaches, and the league itself. The Guardian Kneeland was described not just as a talented athlete but as a kind, determined young man with a strong spirit. His journey from Michigan high school standout to NFL player symbolised perseverance and potential.

Unanswered Questions & Reminders

Though initial reports indicate the cause of death as a gunshot wound after fleeing law enforcement, the official medical examiner’s report is still pending. The Times of India For many, this tragedy is a stark reminder of the importance of mental-health support for athletes and for anyone struggling silently.

Final Thoughts

Marshawn Kneeland’s passing leaves a hole — not just in the Cowboys roster, but in the hearts of those who knew him, played with him, and cheered for him. At just 24, the world had barely seen the full arc of his journey. His legacy will be one of talent, promise, and a life cut far too short. Fans, teammates, and the broader football community will remember #94 not only for his first NFL touchdown, but for his humanity off the field as well.

READ MORE ABOUT BARRON TRUMP