Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland, aged 24, passed away Thursday morning in what police are investigating as an apparent suicide. The team confirmed the devastating news in an official statement expressing their grief and extending condolences to Kneeland’s girlfriend, Catalina, and his family. The Dallas Cowboys described him as a “beloved teammate and member of our organization,” whose presence had a positive impact both on and off the field.

Police Pursuit and Desperate Search Lead to Growing Concerns for Kneeland’s Well-Being

According to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), the events began late Wednesday night when troopers attempted to stop a vehicle for a traffic violation around 10:33 p.m. local time. The driver, later identified as Kneeland, refused to stop, leading to a brief police pursuit. The chase ended when troopers lost sight of the vehicle. Moments later, Frisco Police were called to assist and found a wrecked vehicle on Dallas Parkway. Kneeland reportedly fled the scene on foot, prompting an area search with K-9 units and drones.

Dispatch recordings obtained by CNN revealed that police had been in contact with Kneeland’s girlfriend, who told authorities that he was armed, had a history of mental illness, and had expressed intentions to “end it all.” Around an hour later, Plano police received a call to perform a welfare check at Kneeland’s residence, but were unable to make contact. During this time, the NFL was reportedly in touch with local authorities as Kneeland was sending goodbye messages to his family, intensifying concerns about his well-being.

Tributes Pour In as Kneeland’s Death Sparks Mental Health Conversations in Sports

Frisco police confirmed that Kneeland had expressed suicidal ideations before he was found deceased at approximately 1:31 a.m. with what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The Collin County Medical Examiner’s Office will determine the official cause of death. His tragic passing has sparked discussions surrounding mental health awareness within professional sports, as authorities and fans alike mourn the loss of a promising young athlete whose life ended far too soon.

Marshawn Kneeland was a second-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft and had been making strides in his second season with the Cowboys. This season, he recorded 12 tackles, one sack, and scored his first career touchdown during a game against the Arizona Cardinals. His former coach at Western Michigan University, Lance Taylor, remembered him as a “remarkable young man” whose leadership and energy were “infectious.” Kneeland’s agent, Jonathan Perzley, also expressed deep sorrow, calling Kneeland “a dear friend” who embodied perseverance and heart. The NFL released a statement saying it was “deeply saddened by the tragic news,” as the football community continues to honor the memory of a talented player gone too soon.