Marshawn Kneeland dies at 24 after apparent self-inflicted gunshot: What really happened to the Cowboys Star? 

The NFL world is mourning the shocking death of Marshawn Kneeland, the 24-year-old Dallas Cowboys defensive end, who was found dead early Thursday morning in Frisco, Texas, from what police described as an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The tragedy unfolded just days after Kneeland celebrated his first career NFL touchdown, leaving fans and teammates devastated by the sudden loss of one of the team’s most promising young players.

Cowboys Confirm Death in Heartbreaking Statement

The Dallas Cowboys confirmed Kneeland’s death on Thursday, expressing their deep sorrow and solidarity with his loved ones.

“It is with extreme sadness that the Dallas Cowboys share that Marshawn Kneeland tragically passed away this morning,” the team said in an official statement. “Marshawn was a beloved teammate and member of our organization. Our thoughts and prayers are with his girlfriend Catalina and his family.”

Kneeland had quickly become a locker-room favorite for his work ethic, humility, and determination since being drafted by the Cowboys in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft.

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Police Report: Incident Followed Late-Night Pursuit

According to the Frisco Police Department, the incident followed a late-night vehicle pursuit. Kneeland allegedly fled on foot after a crash along southbound Dallas Parkway on Wednesday night. Officers located him around 1:31 a.m., where he was found deceased from a gunshot wound.

Authorities believe the wound was self-inflicted, though the Collin County medical examiner’s office will confirm the official cause and manner of death.

Tributes Pour In From Agent, Teammates, and the NFL

Kneeland’s agent, Jonathan Perzley, shared a deeply emotional message following the news:

“I am shattered to confirm that my client and dearest friend Marshawn Kneeland passed away last night. 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.”

Perzley described Kneeland as a “fighter with heart and humility,” saying his loss is “a pain I can hardly put into words.”

The NFL also released a statement expressing condolences, adding that the league had reached out to the Cowboys to offer support and counseling resources.

A Rising Star With a Tragic Past

Marshawn Kneeland’s story was one of resilience and perseverance. Born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, he rose to prominence at Western Michigan University, where his performance caught the attention of NFL scouts.

In 2024, he was drafted 56th overall by the Dallas Cowboys, a moment shadowed by tragedy as his mother, Wendy, had passed away shortly before the draft. Kneeland had dedicated his success to her memory, saying:

“I always told her, ‘I’m going to the NFL,’ and I made it.”

Career Highlights: First Touchdown Just Days Before His Death

In his short but impactful NFL career, Kneeland played 18 games for the Cowboys, including four starts, showcasing his potential as a defensive powerhouse.

Just this Monday, he scored his first career touchdown, recovering a blocked punt in the end zone during the Cowboys’ loss to the Arizona Cardinals, a moment that now feels bittersweet for fans and teammates.

Mental Health and Athlete Support in Focus

Kneeland’s death has reignited conversations around mental health in professional sports. Many NFL players have shared messages on social media urging teammates and fans to “check in on each other” and to seek help when struggling.

Support resources such as the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline have been highlighted following the news.

If you or someone you know is in distress, call or text 988 in the U.S., or visit 988lifeline.org. International helplines can be found at befrienders.org.

FAQ: Marshawn Kneeland Death and Career

Q1: Who was Marshawn Kneeland?

A: Marshawn Kneeland was a defensive end for the Dallas Cowboys, drafted in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft from Western Michigan University.

Q2: How did Marshawn Kneeland die?

A: According to police, Kneeland died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound following a vehicle pursuit in Frisco, Texas.

Q3: When did he die?

A: He was found deceased early Thursday morning, November 6, 2025.

Q4: How old was Marshawn Kneeland at the time of his death?

A: He was 24 years old.

Q5: Did he recently play in any NFL games?

A: Yes, he had played in Monday’s game against the Arizona Cardinals, where he scored his first NFL touchdown.

Q6: What did his agent and team say about his death?

A: Both the Dallas Cowboys and his agent, Jonathan Perzley, issued heartfelt statements expressing grief and sympathy for his family and girlfriend, Catalina.

Q7: What was Kneeland’s background before the NFL?

A: He played college football at Western Michigan University and was known for his leadership and defensive prowess.

Q8: Did Marshawn Kneeland have any family tragedies?

A: Yes, his mother, Wendy, passed away shortly before he was drafted in 2024, a loss that deeply affected him.

Q9: What is the NFL doing in response to his death?

A: The NFL has offered support and counseling resources to the Cowboys organization and its players.

Q10: Where can fans find support or mental health resources?

A: U.S. residents can reach out to the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, while international helplines are available at befrienders.org.