The Dallas Cowboys announced with heavy hearts that defensive end Marshawn Kneeland tragically passed away this morning. He was just 24 years old.
“It is with extreme sadness that the Dallas Cowboys share that Marshawn Kneeland tragically passed away this morning,” the team said, adding that “our thoughts and prayers regarding Marshawn are with his girlfriend Catalina and his family.” No cause of death has been announced. Teammates and fans were stunned, and the organization asked for privacy as loved ones grieve.
Advertisement
Reports describe the 24-year-old as a gritty, hard-working edge rusher from Grand Rapids, Michigan. A two-way star at Godwin Heights High School, he set school records for tackles, sacks and tackles for loss before starring at Western Michigan from 2019 to 2023.
MORE: NFL power rankings: NFC East Week 10
He earned Second-Team All-MAC honors in 2023 and was selected 56th overall by the Cowboys in the 2024 NFL Draft. Over his two NFL seasons Kneeland appeared in 18 games and made four starts. This season he was limited by an ankle injury.
Advertisement
He missed two games and was credited with 15 tackles, one sack, two tackles for loss and six quarterback hurries. As a rookie he also battled injuries but showed flashes that convinced Dallas he belonged on the roster.
Statement from the #Cowboys: “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…
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) November 6, 2025
Kneeland’s agent, Jon Perzley, confirmed the death and offered a heartfelt tribute.
Advertisement
“I am shattered to confirm that my client and dearest friend Marshawn Kneeland passed away last night,” Perzley wrote. “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.”
Perzley asked for privacy for Kneeland’s family and girlfriend and urged the football community to support them as they grieve. Our deepest condolences go out to all who loved him. May his loved ones find strength today.
—Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories on The Big Lead—
THURSDAY ROUNDUP:Alex Ovechkin’s historic night, Arizona Cardinals lose Murray, and more
NFL POWER RANKINGS:All 32 teams ranked worst to first entering Week 10
NFL:Updated Super Bowl 60 betting odds following NFL trade deadline
MLB:MLB announces international World Series viewership; Japan, Canada set record
SPORTS MEDIA:Fox Sports has reportedly chosen Mark Sanchez’s replacement
VIRAL:CBS Sports crew pranks NFL analyst for his birthday with a ‘football cake’