Marshawn Kneeland tragically passed away on Thursday morning.
The Dallas Cowboys announced the news. He was 24 years old.
“It is with extreme sadness that the Dallas Cowboys share that Marshawn Kneeland tragically passed away this morning,” the Cowboys’ statement read. “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 selected Marshawn Kneeland in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft out of Western Michigan. He had taken on a larger role this season.
The Cowboys and Marshawn’s agent both released statements to confirm the news. It is an unspeakable tragedy.
”I am shattered to confirm that my client and dearest friend Marshawn Kneeland passed away last night,” his agent, Jonathan Perzley, said. “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. Marshawn poured his heart into every snap, every practice, and every moment on the field. To lose someone with his talent, spirit, and goodness is a pain I can hardly put into words.
“My heart aches for his family, his teammates, and everyone who loved him, and I hope they feel the support of the entire football community during this unimaginable time. I ask that you please give his loved ones the privacy and compassion they need as they grieve this tremendous loss.”
Marshawn had seen his role increase in his second season with the Cowboys and had the vast majority of his career and life ahead of him. It is difficult to process that this has happened.
Kneeland’s former DC, Mike Zimmer, shared his thoughts on Kneeland via Jane Slater.
“He was a great person, eager to learn, wanted to be great,” Zimmer said. “He didn’t take any crap from anyone on the field. He studied hard — loved playing the game. Tough.
“My last conversation with him was, ‘Keep being you — you’re going to have a great career.”
Our thoughts and prayers are with Marshawn’s family and friends.
Update: 11:25am ET
Nick Harris of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reported a statement from the Texas Department of Public Safety regarding Kneeland’s death.
It was noted in the report that Kneeland’s death was ruled a suicide by a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Update: 11:35am ET
The Frisco Police Department has also released a statement.
Marshawn Kneeland’s family also released a statement that confirmed his death.
The Kneeland family regarded Marshawn as a devoted son, brother, uncle, cousin, nephew, grandson, and friend.
They asked for privacy as they navigate this tragedy.
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