Such a tragic situation.
Earlier this morning, the NFL announced that Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland had passed away, just days after scoring a touchdown in the Cowboys’ game against the Arizona Cardinals:
“It is with extreme sadness that the Dallas Cowboys share that Marshawn Kneeland 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.”
According to the Frisco, Texas police department, officers responded to assist the Texas Department of Public Safety with locating a vehicle that had fled from police. When troopers found the car crashed, officers began searching the area with K9 and drones. But approximately three hours later, Kneeland was found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
And heartbreaking audio released by TMZ gives more insight into the desperate search for the NFL player.
In the recording, dispatchers could be heard telling officers that they were talking to Kneeland’s girlfriend, who was trying to call his agent while telling police that Kneeland was armed and “would end it all.”
Officers were then told that Kneeland had sent out a group text saying goodbye, and that the NFL was calling the police in Plano, Texas to report the disturbing messages from the player.
Later, Kneeland was found deceased from a self-inflicted gunshot wound inside a portable toilet.
The audio is tough to listen to, and paints a picture of someone who was clearly struggling with mental health issues that are unfortunately far too common among professional athletes.
Kneeland was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys 56th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft after spending his college years at Western Michigan University. During his time with the Cowboys, Kneeland appeared in 18 games and recorded 26 tackles, two fumble recoveries and one touchdown.
After his death, Kneeland’s agent Jonathan Perzley paid tribute to his close friend:
“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. 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.”
And Western Michigan coach Lance Taylor remembered Kneeland as an incredible player and even better person:
“My heart is absolutely broken over the loss of Marshawn Kneeland. Marshawn was so much more than an incredible football player – he was a remarkable young man who meant so much to our program and to me personally.
His leadership, energy, and smile were infectious, and he left a lasting impact on everyone in our program. Having coached him during my first season here, we developed a special bond that went far beyond football. His passion for life and his teammates were unmatched.
Our entire Bronco Football family is devastated, and we send our deepest prayers to his family, teammates, and all who loved him. Marshawn will forever be a part of the Bronco brotherhood.”
The NFL and the Dallas Cowboys have said that resources will be available for those who need them in the wake of their teammate’s tragic death.
If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available by calling or texting 988, or by chatting online at 988lifeline.org.
