The Dallas Cowboys have announced the death of defensive end Marshawn Kneeland at the age of 24. The team released a statement expressing extreme sadness and offering condolences to his girlfriend and family.
According to the Frisco police department, Kneeland appeared to have taken his own life after a late-night vehicle pursuit and multi-agency search. He fled on foot after a crash and was located at 1.31am. The medical examiner will determine the cause of death.
His agent, Jonathan Perzley, paid tribute, describing Kneeland as a "dearest friend" who fought his way from a hopeful kid at Western Michigan to a respected professional. Western Michigan coach Lance Taylor also expressed heartbreak, highlighting Kneeland's leadership and energy.
Kneeland was drafted in the second round of the 2024 draft, shortly after his mother Wendy died. He said she helped him in his younger years and he always told her he would make the NFL. He played 11 games in his rookie season and scored his first career touchdown on Monday.
The NFL offered support and counseling resources. The Cowboys have previously suffered the death of a player during the season, notably Jerry Brown in 2012. In the UK and Ireland, Samaritans can be contacted on freephone 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org.
