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This story is about suicide. If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, please contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
The NFL community is mourning the tragic death of Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland.
Authorities confirmed that the 24-year-old died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound following a police chase in Texas. Teams and players across the sport have expressed their sadness at the news.
“A tragic loss. Praying for Marshawn’s family, friends and teammates. Gone too soon,” New York Giants quarterback Russell Wilson posted on X.
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Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland (94) walks on the field during the team’s training camp at River Ridge Playing Fields in Oxnard, California, on July 25, 2024. (Brandon Sloter/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
“It sucks to see our NFL brother’s news!” Tennessee Titans star Jeffery Simmons posted on
“If you or someone you know needs emotional support, please contact the National Mental Health Hotline: 988. You are not alone.”
“Hard to process the horrible news from Dallas. Just tragic,” NFL great JJ Watt posted on X.
Lance Taylor of the Western Michigan Broncos, head coach at Kneeland’s alma mater, said he was heartbroken.
“My heart is absolutely broken by the loss of Marshawn Kneeland. Marshawn was much more than an incredible football player – he was an extraordinary young man who meant a lot to our program and to me personally. His leadership, energy and smile were infectious and he left a lasting impact on everyone in our program. After coaching him during my first season here, we developed a special bond that went far beyond football,” the statement read.
MARSHAWN KNEELAND OF THE COWBOYS DIED BY SUICIDE AFTER A POLICE CHASE IN TEXAS, OFFICIALS SAY
Green Bay Packers running back Emanuel Wilson (23) runs against Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland (94) in the first quarter at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on Sept. 28, 2025. (Kevin Jairaj/Image Images)
“His passion for life and his teammates were unmatched. Our entire Bronco Football family is devastated and we send our deepest prayers to his family, teammates and everyone who loved him. Marshawn will always be a part of the Bronco brotherhood.”
Bilhal Kone, Baltimore Ravens cornerback and Kneeland’s teammate at Western Michigan, said he can’t wait to make Kneeland proud with his play.
“Wow brother, you were a great figure for me more than a teammate, more than a brother, you were a hope! I helped my dream come true by seeing you achieve it. I can’t wait for you to be proud to play with your energy,” Kone posted on X.
“The NFL Players Association is deeply saddened by the passing of Marshawn Kneeland. His impact on those around him was immeasurable and his loss is deeply felt throughout our community. We are working to ensure players have the support they need and our condolences are with Marshawn’s family and loved ones,” the NFLPA said in a statement.
COWBOYS DEFENSIVE FINISH MARSHAWN KNEELAND DEATH AT AGE 24
Marshawn Kneeland (94) of the Dallas Cowboys looks on from the sideline during the national anthem before an NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on Dec. 9, 2024. (Perry Knotts/Getty Images)
“To our player members, remember that grieving can be difficult. Support each other and care for your well-being. We encourage you to contact us for wellness support or use the NFL Life Line.”
According to officials, DPS officers attempted a traffic stop around 10:33 p.m. when the driver, later identified as Kneeland, refused to stop. Authorities initiated a chase but eventually lost sight of Kneeland’s vehicle, ending the chase.
His car was later found abandoned and authorities began searching the area. Kneeland was later found dead.
Frisco police, who assisted in the DPS chase, issued a statement saying officers found the abandoned vehicle “minutes later” and that Kneeland was believed to have fled on foot.
Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland (94) recovers a blocked punt for a touchdown against the Arizona Cardinals in the first half at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on Nov. 3, 2025. (Kevin Jairaj/Image Images)
Police said during their search they learned that “Kneeland had expressed suicidal ideation.”
He was located around 1:30 a.m. on Thursday. Frisco police said the official cause of death will be determined by the Collin County Medical Examiner’s Office, but he appeared to have died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Kneeland was in his second season with the Cowboys after being selected 56th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. His death came just days after he recorded his first NFL touchdown in a game against the Arizona Cardinals on Monday night.
