Marshawn Kneeland, a rising defensive end for the Dallas Cowboys, died early Thursday morning at the age of 24 following an overnight police pursuit, crash, and multi-agency search in Frisco, Texas. Police are investigating his death as a possible suicide after he was found with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. The tragic loss has shaken the NFL community just days after Kneeland scored his first career touchdown.
Key Takeaways on Marshawn Kneeland Death
- Marshawn Kneeland, 24, died after fleeing a late-night police pursuit and being found with a suspected self-inflicted gunshot wound.
- Frisco Police and Texas DPS confirmed he evaded officers during a traffic stop, crashed on Dallas Parkway, and fled the scene on foot.
- Authorities revealed he expressed suicidal ideations and sent “goodbye” texts to loved ones during the search.
- The Cowboys, NFL, teammates, agent, and former coaches released emotional tributes remembering his talent, character, and impact.
- Kneeland had recently scored his first NFL touchdown and was in his second season after being drafted in the second round in 2024.
Police Pursuit That Led to the Tragedy
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), the incident began at 10:33 p.m. on Wednesday when troopers attempted to stop a vehicle for a traffic violation. The driver—later identified as Marshawn Kneeland—refused to halt, prompting a pursuit. Officers soon lost sight of the vehicle, leading to Frisco Police being called for assistance at 10:39 p.m.
Minutes later, authorities located the wrecked vehicle on southbound Dallas Parkway near Warren Parkway. Initial reports confirmed that Kneeland fled on foot immediately after the crash. A perimeter was established, and K-9 units and drones were deployed as part of an extensive multi-agency search.
Dispatch audio later revealed that police had been in touch with Kneeland’s girlfriend, who reportedly warned officers that he was armed, had a history of mental health issues, and feared he might harm himself. Authorities also learned that Kneeland had sent “goodbye” texts to family members, escalating concerns for his safety.
Discovery of Marshawn Kneeland’s Body
At approximately 1:31 a.m., nearly three hours after the crash, Frisco Police located Kneeland’s body. He was found deceased with what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to the official police statement. The Collin County Medical Examiner’s Office will determine the final cause and manner of death as the investigation continues.
Local police extended their condolences to the Kneeland family and described the case as an active and ongoing inquiry.
Cowboys and NFL React With Deep Sorrow
The Dallas Cowboys announced the heartbreaking news on Thursday morning, describing Kneeland as a “beloved teammate and member of our organization.”
In a statement, the team said:
“It is with extreme sadness that the Dallas Cowboys share that Marshawn Kneeland tragically passed away this morning. Our thoughts and prayers are with his girlfriend Catalina and his family.”
The NFL also released a statement expressing grief, writing that the league has offered support and counseling resources to the Cowboys organization and Kneeland’s loved ones. The NFL Players Association similarly mourned the young player, calling his impact “immeasurable.”
The tragedy unfolded during the Cowboys’ bye week. The team is scheduled to return to action on November 17 against the Las Vegas Raiders.
Agent and Former Coaches Pay Emotional Tributes
Kneeland’s agent, Jonathan Perzley, shared a deeply personal statement, saying he was “shattered” by the loss of his client and close friend.
He wrote:
“I watched him fight his way from a hopeful kid at Western Michigan with a dream to being a respected professional for the Dallas Cowboys. To lose someone with his talent, spirit, and goodness is a pain I can hardly put into words.”
Perzley requested privacy for the family and loved ones as they navigate the devastating loss.
Former Western Michigan head coach Lance Taylor, who coached him early in his college career, remembered Kneeland as a remarkable young man whose leadership, energy, and smile deeply influenced the program. Taylor said Kneeland’s passion for life and football left a lasting impact on everyone he worked with.
Kneeland’s Rising Career and Recent Milestones
Marshawn Kneeland entered the NFL full of promise after being selected in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft. At Western Michigan, he posted 27.5 tackles for loss, 13 sacks, three forced fumbles, and three pass breakups across 38 games.
His rookie year with the Cowboys was partially derailed by a knee injury, but he still recorded notable defensive numbers, including 17 tackles, 13 quarterback pressures, two tackles for loss, and a fumble recovery.
In the 2025 season, Kneeland had begun taking a larger role on the field. Just days before his death, he celebrated a major career moment—scoring his first NFL touchdown after recovering a blocked punt in the end zone during the Cowboys’ loss to the Arizona Cardinals.
In seven games this season, he had already posted 12–15 tackles, a sack, multiple pressures, and consistent special teams contributions.
Spiritual Perspective Through The Unique Knowledge of Saint Rampal Ji Maharaj Ji
In moments of sudden tragedies, people often question life’s purpose and the weight of suffering. Tatvdarshi Saint Rampal Ji Maharaj explains that true peace comes only through correct spiritual knowledge and devotion to the Supreme God. According to Him, worldly success cannot protect a soul from inner turmoil unless it is connected to true devotion.
Saint Rampal Ji Maharaj Ji teaches that understanding our real identity as souls brings clarity, stability, and freedom from despair. His Guidance shows the path to lasting peace beyond life’s uncertainties.
For deeper spiritual insight, visit www.jagatgururampalji.org and YouTube channel Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj.
A Heartbreaking Loss That Leaves the NFL Community Searching for Answers
Marshawn Kneeland’s death has left teammates, coaches, and fans grappling with profound grief. His journey—from a hopeful college athlete dreaming of the NFL to a respected professional—was marked by perseverance, talent, and quiet resilience. The tragedy underscores ongoing concerns about mental health pressures faced by athletes and the silent battles many endure behind the scenes.
As investigations continue, the football world remembers a young man whose potential, spirit, and character touched everyone around him.
FAQs on Marshawn Kneeland Death
1. Who was Marshawn Kneeland?
Marshawn Kneeland was a Dallas Cowboys defensive end, a 2024 second-round draft pick from Western Michigan, known for his rising NFL performance and strong defensive impact.
2. How did Marshawn Kneeland die?
Police found him dead from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound after a late-night pursuit, crash, and multi-agency search in Frisco, Texas.
3. Why was Marshawn Kneeland running from police?
Texas DPS attempted to stop him for a traffic violation. He evaded officers, crashed, fled on foot, and later expressed suicidal ideations, according to police.
4. What happened during the police search for Kneeland?
After fleeing the crash, officers used K-9 and drone units. His girlfriend reported suicidal concerns, and he sent goodbye texts before being found deceased.
5. How did the Cowboys and NFL react to his death?
The Cowboys, NFL, and his agent issued heartfelt statements expressing deep sorrow, remembering his character, talent, and offering support resources.
