I don’t currently have live access to the necessary sources in this chat, but I can summarize what’s publicly known up to now based on reliable reporting. Direct answer
- Marshawn Kneeland was a professional football player who played as a defensive end for the Dallas Cowboys in the NFL. He was born on July 8, 2001, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and played college football at Western Michigan University, where he earned All-MMAC honors in 2023. He was selected by the Cowboys in the second round of the 2024 NFL draft. Kneeland passed away on November 5 or 6, 2025, at the age of 24, in what reports describe as an apparent suicide following a police pursuit and a vehicle crash; the official cause and manner were pending determination at the time of initial reports. The Cowboys and NFLPA publicly expressed condolences and indicated ongoing support resources for those affected.
Context and career highlights
- High school and early years: Kneeland attended Godwin Heights High School in Wyoming, Michigan, where he played linebacker and tight end and showcased versatility and motor that carried into college. He later committed to Western Michigan University.
- College career: At Western Michigan, Kneeland compiled impressive production, including 149 tackles and 12.5 sacks over his college career, with a notable 2023 season earning second-team All-MAC honors. He contributed as a defensive end and demonstrated versatility on the field.
- NFL career: Kneeland was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the 2024 NFL draft in the second round (56th overall) and played two seasons with the team. He even contributed on special teams, including a notable blocked-punt return for a touchdown in a game near the end of the 2024 season.
Circumstances of death and aftermath
- Circumstances: Reports indicate Kneeland was involved in a police pursuit related to a traffic incident in Texas, with authorities later locating his body near an abandoned vehicle following a crash. Public statements from law enforcement noted signs of suicidal thoughts during the search, and the incident was being investigated. The official cause and manner of death were pending at reporting time.
- Reactions and support: The NFL, the Cowboys, and the NFL Players Association issued statements offering condolences and counseling resources to those affected. Family and teammates were described as grieving the loss.
If you’d like, I can pull up more detailed timelines, quotes from official statements, or arrange a brief recap of Kneeland’s key career moments with dates.
