What Happened to Him?

Authorities in Frisco, Texas, confirmed that he was found early Thursday morning following an overnight search that began after a vehicle pursuit. The Texas Department of Public Safety had been in pursuit of a vehicle that entered Frisco around 10:39 p.m. Wednesday.

Troopers later found the crashed vehicle on southbound Dallas Parkway near Warren Parkway. According to the report, Kneeland fled the scene on foot, prompting a wide-scale search with K-9 and drone units.

While authorities searched, dispatchers received reports that friends and family of Marshawn had gotten a group text from him saying goodbye, raising fears for his safety. Nearly three hours later, he was found dead from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Dallas Cowboys Mourn the Loss

The Dallas Cowboys released a heartfelt statement expressing their grief over the death of Marshawn Kneeland but did not mention a cause of death:

“It is with extreme sadness that the Dallas Cowboys share that Marshawn 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 Cowboys have made counseling and support resources available to all players, coaches, and staff. The team is currently on its bye week and will resume practice on Monday.

Agent and Coaches Remember Kneeland

Marshawn’s agent, Jonathan Perzley, confirmed the death in an emotional statement:

“I am shattered to confirm that my client and dearest friend Marshawn passed away last night. I watched him fight his way from a hopeful kid at Western Michigan to 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.”

Western Michigan head coach Lance Taylor also expressed his grief, calling Kneeland “a remarkable young man” whose leadership and smile “left a lasting impact on everyone in our program.”

Kneeland’s Football Career and Achievements

A 2024 second-round draft pick (No. 56 overall), Kneeland quickly became one of the most promising defensive players for the Dallas Cowboys. Known for his energy and humility, he made an immediate impression on coaches and teammates alike.

In Monday’s loss to the Arizona Cardinals, Marshawn scored his first NFL touchdown after recovering a blocked punt in the end zone.

Marshawn Kneeland Stats

• Age: 24
• Height: 6’3″
• Weight: 268 lbs
• Position: Defensive End
• College: Western Michigan
• 2025 NFL Stats: 15 tackles, 1 sack, 2 tackles for loss, 6 quarterback hurries

At Western Michigan University, Kneeland played 38 collegiate games, recording 27.5 tackles for loss, 13 sacks, and earning second-team All-Mid-American Conference honors in 2023. He was known for his relentless motor and leadership on and off the field.

How Did Marshawn Kneeland Die?

According to official reports, Marshawn’s cause of death was an apparent suicide from a self-inflicted gunshot wound following a police chase and car crash in Frisco, Texas. Authorities confirmed there was no indication of foul play. The investigation remains ongoing.

NFL and Cowboys Offer Support

The NFL released a statement saying it was “deeply saddened” by the news of Kneeland’s death and that it has “offered support and counseling resources” to the Dallas Cowboys organization.

A Promising Life and Career Cut Short

Former Cowboys coach Greg Ellis reflected on Kneeland’s dedication: “He epitomized what you look for in a football player. He played hard, was eager to learn, and was always respectful. He wanted to do extra — study film, ask questions — that was Marshawn.”

Marshawn’s girlfriend Catalina and his family are mourning privately. Fans, teammates, and coaches continue to share heartfelt tributes online, remembering him not just as a Cowboys player, but as a kind and humble young man who inspired others.

Kneeland’s contract with the Cowboys was a four-year rookie deal signed in 2024, and he was seen as one of the team’s most promising young defenders. His untimely passing has left the organization and fans devastated.

Remembering Marshawn Kneeland

The loss of Marshawn is a painful reminder of the importance of mental health awareness, even among professional athletes. His death has sparked conversations about the unseen struggles that players often face behind the spotlight.

Fans across the nation are searching for answers — “How did Kneeland die?” — but beyond that question lies a deeper grief for a life full of promise, talent, and heart.