At 24, NFL Player Marshawn Kneeland Passed Away, Suicide Cited To Be The Reason - Report

At just 24 years old, Marshawn Kneeland, a promising defensive end for the Dallas Cowboys of the NFL, has passed away. The team announced the tragic news Thursday morning, describing him as a “beloved teammate and member of our organization.” His sudden death has shocked fans, teammates, and the sports community alike.

His journey from a standout college player at Western Michigan University to an impactful rookie in the NFL made headlines. Sadly, his life was cut short, leaving many in mourning.

Marshawn Kneeland’s Cause of Death

A statement from Frisco Police on the death of #Cowboys DE Marshawn Kneeland: pic.twitter.com/6rhWsEEOM8

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 6, 2025

While all the details are still under official investigation, early reports indicate Marshawn Kneeland died by suicide after a police pursuit in the Frisco, Texas area. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and local law enforcement, officers attempted a traffic stop on his vehicle for a violation. The pursuit ended when the car was found crashed and abandoned, and Kneeland was later located with what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Kneeland was found dead "in the immediate area" with a self-inflicted gunshot wound, Texas DPS said.

Police said there were indicators of suicidal ideation, including that friends or family may have known he was in crisis. However, more details remain private out of respect for the family, as his passing has raised awareness about mental health challenges faced by young athletes. This kind of news is deeply saddening and underscores the seriousness of mental health issues in professional sports and beyond.

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The Importance of Mental Health Awareness in Sports

Kneeland’s passing is a poignant reminder of the pressures young athletes face. The physical demands and public spotlight, combined with personal losses such as the death of Kneeland’s mother in 2024, can deeply impact mental well-being. Experts stress the importance of providing mental health resources and reducing stigma around seeking help in professional sports.

This tragic loss highlights several things.

• No matter the success or public image, anyone can face internal struggles.
• The pressure and spotlight in elite sports can magnify personal issues.
• It reminds us how important mental-health support and open conversation are, especially for athletes who may feel they must show toughness rather than seek help.

While Marshawn was just beginning what many expected to be a long, successful career, his passing is a stark reminder that achievement on the field doesn’t always protect someone from pain off it.

Who Was Marshawn Kneeland?

Kneeland rose steadily from his high-school days in Michigan into a bright professional career. He registered strong college stats for Western Michigan before being selected 56th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. Born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, on July 8, 2001, he excelled in high school football and track, showing strong physical ability

The 24-year-old played college football at Western Michigan University from 2019 to 2023. He was drafted 56th overall by the Dallas Cowboys in the 2024 NFL Draft. In his career, he played 18 NFL games over two seasons, scoring his first touchdown just days before his death. 

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Conclusion

The loss of Marshawn Kneeland at such a young age is heartbreaking. His journey inspired many, and his death highlights the critical need for mental health awareness and support within the sports community. Remembering Kneeland means honouring both his athletic talents and the person behind the jersey. If you or someone you know struggles with mental health, professional help is available.