Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland has died at the age of 24, the team confirmed on Thursday.
In a statement, the Cowboys said they were “deeply saddened” by his passing:
“Marshawn was a beloved teammate and member of our organization. Our thoughts and prayers are with his girlfriend, Catalina, and his family.”
According to the Frisco Police Department, Kneeland was found early Thursday morning with what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. His death followed a late-night vehicle crash and subsequent search involving multiple agencies. Police reported that Kneeland had fled on foot after crashing his car on southbound Dallas Parkway. The Collin County Medical Examiner’s Office will determine the official cause of death.
Kneeland’s agent, Jonathan Perzley, paid tribute, saying he was “shattered” by the loss of his client and friend.
“I watched him fight his way from a hopeful kid at Western Michigan to a respected professional. Marshawn poured his heart into every snap and every moment on the field. Losing someone with his spirit and kindness is a pain I can hardly describe.”
The Cowboys drafted Kneeland in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft out of Western Michigan University. His career was on the rise earlier this week, he scored his first NFL touchdown after recovering a blocked punt against the Arizona Cardinals on Monday Night Football.
Kneeland had endured personal tragedy before; his mother, Wendy, passed away shortly before he was drafted. “She helped me get into football. I always told her I’d make it to the NFL, and I did,” he once said.
The NFL expressed condolences, offering counseling and support to the Cowboys organization.
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