Tragedy in Dallas: Cowboys’ Marshawn Kneeland Dead at 24 in Apparent Self-Inflicted Shooting, Police Confirm

FRISCO, Texas — Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland died Wednesday night from a self-inflicted gunshot wound following a police pursuit, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). He was 24.

Authorities said troopers attempted to stop Kneeland’s vehicle on the Dallas North Tollway around 10:30 p.m. for an alleged traffic violation. Kneeland allegedly failed to pull over, prompting a pursuit. Troopers eventually lost sight of the vehicle and terminated the chase, officials said.

The vehicle was later discovered abandoned after a crash on the Dallas Parkway. Kneeland was found in the immediate area with a fatal self-inflicted gunshot wound, DPS said.

The Cowboys confirmed his death Thursday, calling Kneeland “a beloved teammate and member of our organization.” The team added, “Our thoughts and prayers regarding Marshawn are with his girlfriend Catalina and his family.”

Kneeland, a second-round pick out of Western Michigan in the 2024 NFL Draft, was in his second season with Dallas and had carved out a reserve role along the defensive line. He played 11 games as a rookie and appeared in seven games this season. He recorded his only career sack in the 2025 season opener against the Philadelphia Eagles and scored his lone touchdown Monday night against the Arizona Cardinals, recovering a blocked punt in the end zone.

His agent, Jonathan Perzley, mourned the loss in a statement. “I am shattered to confirm that my client and dearest friend Marshawn Kneeland passed away last night,” Perzley said. “I watched him fight his way from a hopeful kid at Western Michigan with a dream to being a respected professional for the Dallas Cowboys. Marshawn poured his heart into every snap, every practice, and every moment on the field. To lose someone with his talent, spirit, and goodness is a pain I can hardly put into words.”

Kneeland’s death comes during the Cowboys’ bye week, just a day after the team bolstered its defense by acquiring former Jets star Quinnen Williams.

A native of Michigan and a standout at Western Michigan, Kneeland entered the league with a reputation for motor and versatility. Coaches and teammates frequently praised his work ethic and presence in the locker room.

This is a developing story. Further details about memorial plans and team tributes were not immediately available.

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