On Thursday morning, the Dallas Cowboys announced the death of defensive end Marshawn Kneeland. Law enforcement officials have since released in a statement that the death was the result of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. He was 24 years old.
A native of Grand Rapids, Michigan, he attended Godwin Heights High School, where he was a dominant linebacker and tight end. He committed to Western Michigan out of high school and remained at the program throughout his career, although he almost transferred to Colorado when Deion Sanders was hired as head coach. At Western Michigan, he compiled 148 tackles, 27.5 tackles for loss and 13 sacks in 38 games.
A Senior Bowl participant, Kneeland emerged as an early draft pick because of his run-stopping ability and big frame at 6-foot-3, 268 pounds. The Cowboys selected him with the No. 56 overall pick in 2024 after selecting offensive tackle Tyler Guyton in the first round.
In two seasons with the Cowboys, he played in 18 games and began his second season as a starting defensive end. He combined for 26 tackles including five tackles for loss and one sack during his short career.
In his final game against the Arizona Cardinals on Monday night, he recovered a blocked punt for his only NFL touchdown.
His mother, Wendy, passed away just a few months before he was drafted in an unexpected death. He frequently wore a chain around his neck with her ashes.
In a family statement, Kneeland was described as “a devoted son, brother, uncle, cousin, nephew, grandson and friend. He was kind, determined, humble and full of love. His light shone brightly in every life he touched, and his spirit will continue to live on through the countless hearts he inspired.”
In the locker room, Kneeland was described as a joyful and upbeat person by his teammates. In a message to NFL Network, former defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer had this to say about his former player:
“He was a great person, eager to learn, wanted to be great. He didn’t take crap from anyone on the field. He studied hard, loved playing the game. Tough. My last conversation with him was keep being you, you’re going to have a great career.”
The Cowboys have a bye week this weekend ahead of a Monday night matchup with the Las Vegas Raiders on Nov. 17. Players will return to the facility on Monday, Nov. 10.
If you or a loved one is experiencing a crisis or suicidal thoughts, there is help available. Call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988.