FRISCO, Texas – The Dallas Cowboys organization, its players, and fans are grappling with an unimaginable loss Thursday after the tragic passing of defensive end Marshawn Kneeland. He was 24 years old. The team announced the devastating news, sending shockwaves through the NFL community and casting a pall over the franchise.
Dak Prescott reacts to Marshawn Kneeland death
1. A Promising Career Cut Short
The Cowboys selected Kneeland with the 56th overall pick in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft, investing in his potential as a key part of their defensive future. The Western Michigan product was in the midst of his sophomore season, actively stepping into a larger role. Despite missing two games due to injury, he had already made three starts in 2025.
His on-field contributions were growing; in just seven appearances this season, he recorded 15 tackles, a sack, two tackles for loss, and six quarterback hurries. In a bright moment during a tough loss to the Arizona Cardinals just days ago, Kneeland scored the first touchdown of his career, recovering a blocked punt in the end zone—a memory that now stands as a poignant final highlight.
2. An Organization and a Leader in Mourning
The Cowboys released a heartfelt statement, saying, “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 regarding Marshawn are with his girlfriend Catalina and his family.”
Quarterback Dak Prescott, a vocal advocate for mental health, gave a voice to the team’s grief. “Tragic loss, I hurt, heavy heart today,” Prescott told CBS News Texas. “I hurt for Marshawn, I hurt for his family, I hurt for his girlfriend and I hurt for every single one of my teammates. This is a pain you don’t wish upon anybody.”
3. The Tragic Circumstances
According to a report from the Fort Worth Star-Telegram and a statement from the Texas Department of Public Safety, Kneeland’s death was caused by a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The statement detailed that the incident occurred after a traffic pursuit was terminated. Kneeland was later found deceased near his abandoned vehicle.
This tragic news underscores the immense and often hidden pressures individuals can face, a topic Prescott has championed throughout his career.
The Cowboys enter their bye week under a cloud of profound sadness, a scheduled break that now provides a crucial period for the team to grieve and support one another. Marshawn Kneeland’s passing is a stark reminder that extends far beyond football—a life lost far too soon. As the Cowboys and the NFL community mourn a player, a teammate, and a friend, the focus turns to compassion, support for his loved ones, and the enduring importance of mental health awareness. The team will resume play on November 17th, undoubtedly carrying his memory with them.