Marshawn Kneeland died at 24 after a police chase near the Dallas Cowboys facility. He was found dead on November 6, 2025, two days after scoring his first NFL touchdown. The Cowboys released a brief statement asking for privacy for his family and teammates.
Feb 28, 2024; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Western Michigan defensive lineman Marshawn Kneeland (DL41) talks to the media at the 2024 NFL Combine at Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 28, 2024; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Western Michigan defensive lineman Marshawn Kneeland (DL41) talks to the media at the 2024 NFL Combine at Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
Solomon Thomas posted a short message that hit like a full tackle. “Brother Marshawn I love you,” hewrote. “I wish you knew it was going to be okay. I wish you knew the pain wouldn’t last and how loved you are. I wish you knew how bad we wanted you to stay. My heart breaks for you and your loved ones. We will lift your spirit up everyday.”
He urged anyone in pain to seek help.“To anyone struggling please hold on to that light/ Please know there is always help and hope. Whatever story you’re going through it’s okay to feel that pain. It’s okay to not be okay. But the light will come again. Truly a devastating day,” he added.
“I wish you knew it was going to be okay. I wish you knew the pain wouldn’t last and how loved you are. I wish you knew how bad we wanted you to stay.”
Powerful words from Cowboys DT Solomon Thomas on the loss of Marshawn Kneeland: pic.twitter.com/SX92pMcWRY
— Jori Epstein (@JoriEpstein) November 7, 2025
Thomas has worked publicly on suicide prevention since his sister died in 2018. His voice mattered in this moment.
Teammates reacted with sorrow and clear words. Parsons reacted to the news with a social media post saying, “I’m sorry lil brother I hope you find peace.”
Perzley released a heartfelt statement, saying he was “shattered” by the news and adding, “To lose someone with his talent, spirit and goodness is a pain I can hardly put into words”. He asked for privacy and compassion for Kneeland’s loved ones as they grieved the “tremendous loss”.
#Cowboys DE Marshawn Kneeland has tragically died at the age of 24, his agent tells The Insiders and @SlaterNFL. His statement. pic.twitter.com/9W8hEeoWbl
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 6, 2025
Kneeland had just crossed a milestone on Monday Night Football. He recovered a blocked punt for a touchdown three days before his death.
That play had been a turning point in his second NFL season. The timing made the loss feel cruel and sudden to many.
Solomon Thomas Turns Pain Into Purpose as League Confronts Mental Health Crisis
Solomon Thomas turned private grief into public work after 2018. He has raised funds and spoken widely about mental health in his community.
Thomas wrote that light can return and that asking for help is a strength. His foundation and outreach have become integral to how teammates respond to crises.
The league now faces another urgent question about care and access to resources. The NFL has promoted the 988 Lifeline as a tool for those in crisis.
Teams and players often point fans to that number when tragedy strikes. That practical message was repeated after Kneeland’s death.
Reporting on death demands exact language and restraint. Facts must be accurate and sourced. Officials are investigating and the details in public reports remain subject to confirmation.
For now, the facts are clear. A young player is gone and a veteran used his voice to push help and hope.