The NFL is in mourning after the death of Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland. His passing has shocked the football community.
New Details Reveal Terrifying Choices of Marshawn Kneeland in Final Hours Before His Death (Image via TMZ/Getty)
New Details Reveal Terrifying Choices of Marshawn Kneeland in Final Hours Before His Death (Image via TMZ/Getty)
Authorities have released new details about the tragic circumstances. The events leading to his death involved a police pursuit and a fatal shooting.
Final hours of Marshawn Kneeland reveal shocking truth
The Texas Department of Public Safety stated that Marshawn Kneeland drove at speeds exceeding 150 mph on November 6, 2025. He was being pursued after failing to stop for a trooper.
He reportedly reached speeds above 145 mph before losing control of his Dodge Charger, according toTMZ. The vehicle crashed, forcing him to flee the scene on foot.
Officers located the abandoned car and began searching the surrounding area. Kneeland was not immediately found during the initial sweep.
His pregnant girlfriend, Catalina Mancera, contacted authorities. She said he was armed and expressed suicidal thoughts before the crash.
The NFL notified Plano police after Kneeland reportedly sent goodbye messages to his family. The texts raised immediate concern for his safety.
Hours later officers discovered his body with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound near the crash site.
His untimely passing has deeply affected his teammates and the wider football community. Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott, whose brother died by suicide in 2020, spoke movingly of the loss, expressing hurt for Kneeland’s family and teammates.
The team has paid tribute to him by wearing special helmet decals and establishing the Marshawn Kneeland Memorial Fund to support his pregnant girlfriend and their baby.
Reports have also revealed that concerns about Kneeland’s mental health were not new.
While playing at Western Michigan, police twice performed welfare checks, including one instance where coaches raised concerns and he voluntarily surrendered a firearm after admitting to suicidal thoughts.
Kneeland was still grieving the recent death of his mother when he died. The tragedy has revealed the mental health pressures athletes face, even those at the peak of their profession, and has prompted renewed discussion around supporting them.
Kneeland’s death has renewed focus on athlete wellness programs. Teams and leagues are under scrutiny to provide proactive mental health support.
The tragedy shows that external achievement does not shield individuals from personal struggles. His story may influence long-term changes in NFL player care.
Awareness and support for mental health remain critical. Kneeland’s passing serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of early intervention and comprehensive care for athletes.