In a tragic incident, Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland was discovered deceased early Thursday morning in Frisco, Texas. The cause of death is believed to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound that occurred following a vehicle crash after a police chase, as reported by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). Kneeland was only 24 years old.
The unfortunate events began around 10:33 p.m. local time when officers attempted to stop Kneeland’s vehicle. After the driver refused to comply, a pursuit ensued but was ultimately terminated when DPS troopers lost sight of the car. The vehicle was later found abandoned after colliding in the southbound lanes of Dallas Parkway. Initial reports from the Frisco Police Department indicated that Kneeland fled the scene on foot. Tragically, he was pronounced dead at 1:31 a.m.
The Dallas Cowboys organization expressed their profound sorrow, stating, “It is with extreme sadness that we share that Marshawn Kneeland tragically passed away this morning. Marshawn was a beloved teammate and member of our organization. Our thoughts and prayers regarding Marshawn are with his girlfriend Catalina and his family.”
The Plano Police Department confirmed to The Athletic that they conducted a welfare check at an address associated with Kneeland on Wednesday night at 11:40 p.m. local time. Unfortunately, officers did not find anyone at the residence. Kneeland, who was in his second season with the Cowboys, was drafted in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft. During this season, he played in seven games, starting three, and recorded 12 tackles along with one sack.
The NFL Players Association (NFLPA) released a statement expressing their deep sadness over Kneeland's passing, stating, “His impact on those around him was immeasurable, and his loss is felt profoundly across our community. We’re working to ensure that players have the support they need, and our condolences are with Marshawn’s family and loved ones.”
Just this past Monday, in what would be his last game before the bye week, Kneeland achieved a significant milestone by scoring his first career touchdown after recovering a blocked punt in the end zone against the Arizona Cardinals. This achievement highlighted his potential and contribution to the team.
Born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Kneeland spent most of his life in western Michigan. He showcased his athletic abilities as a linebacker and tight end at Godwin Heights High School in Wyoming, Michigan, before continuing his career at Western Michigan University. There, he earned second-team All-MAC honors in 2023, further solidifying his reputation as a talented player.
Marshawn Kneeland becomes the first active NFL player to pass away during a season since the tragic death of Indianapolis Colts linebacker Edwin Jackson in 2018. The NFL has faced similar losses in the past, including Cowboys linebacker Jerry Brown, who died in a car accident shortly after joining the team's practice squad in 2012, and strength and conditioning coach Markus Paul, who passed away in November 2020 after suffering a medical emergency at the team's headquarters.
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