NFL Star Passes Away at 24
On Thursday, Nov. 6, 2025, the Dallas Cowboys reported that young defensive edge rusher, Marshawn Kneeland, passed away. Initial reports from the Dallas Police Department reported that it was a self-inflicted gunshot wound, ruling that it was suicide. The Kneeland family, his friends, the Dallas Cowboys organization and the Dallas community mourn his loss and pray for those struggling with mental health.
Kneeland was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in 2001. Kneeland was well known for his athletic build and strength of character. Kneeland attended Godwin Heights High School in Wyoming, Michigan. During his time at Godwin Heights, Kneeland played both as a linebacker and a tight end. During his senior year, Kneeland recorded 110 tackles, 8 sacks, as well as over 330 receiving yards and 5 touchdowns offensively. Kneeland was an active member of his community, constantly engaging in the student body, as well as bringing a leadership presence to his team. After his senior season, Kneeland committed to Western Michigan University.
From 2019-2023, Kneeland was widely regarded as a leader of the Western Michigan defense. Kneeland’s college stats included 149 tackles, 12.5 sacks, 3 pass deflections and 3 forced fumbles. Kneeland’s dominating presence at the line of scrimmage, leadership qualitiesand physical ability provided him with an opportunity to pursue a career in the NFL. After his senior year at Western Michigan, Marshawn was invited to the NFL combine.
Kneeland knew that with an impressive combine performance, his draft stock would boost tremendously. During the NFL combine, Kneeland recorded 4.75 seconds on the 40-yard dash, 4.18 seconds on the 20-yard shuttle, 7.02 seconds on the three-cone drill and benched 225 pounds for 21 reps. Kneeland’s performance instantly turned scouts’ heads as they knew he had the potential to become a star in the NFL. Marshawn’s dreams of playing in the NFL came true as he was the 56th pick in the 2024 draft. Marshawn was now a Dallas Cowboy.
Marshawn had an impressive rookie training camp. Marshawn’s ability to quickly adapt to NFL play, as well as his domination at the line of scrimmage, earned him a starter spot for the Dallas Cowboys in his rookie season. Marshawn made his official NFL debut on Sept. 8, 2024, as the Dallas Cowboys traveled to play the Cleveland Browns. Marshawn recorded 14 tackles in his first 11 NFL games. Although Kneeland did not put up an impressive stat line to begin his NFL career, he continuously showed signs of improvement. Unfortunately, his rookie season came to an end when he suffered an arthroscopic injury.
Kneeland was able to recover in time for his sophomore year. The Cowboy organization and fanbase had high expectations for Kneeland and his return. Amongst the fans, Kneeland was always known as a man for the people, continuously devoting his time to the fans and the Dallas Community. Kneeland began this season having 12 tackles and he recorded his first NFL sack. On Nov. 3 of Monday Night Football, just days before his passing, Kneeland recorded his first NFL touchdown on a blocked punt versus the Arizona Cardinals. Fans were truly excited to see the rise of Marshawn Kneeland, and were ready to see him become one of the NFL’s best.
On Nov. 6, fans woke up to the horrific news that Marshawn Kneeland had passed away at the age of 24. Reports show that his girlfriend, Catalina, had called the Dallas Police Department worried that Kneeland had intentions to self-harm. Dallas Police attempted to prevent Kneeland from causing harm to himself or others, but initially lost him in the pursuit. Later, they found the vehicle abandoned and found Kneeland in a portable bathroom, who had already passed away from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
The Dallas Cowboys community mourns his loss. Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott was the first to speak publicly about the passing of his teammate. Prescott talked about the struggles he has had with mental health, his brother, who had also passed away from suicide in 2020, and the organization that Dak founded for suicide prevention, “Faith, Fight, Finish”.
Those who struggle with mental health should never feel alone or incapable of receiving help. We must always be prepared to help those around us and have a willingness to “Ask 4 Help,” as Dak Prescott said. Our thoughts, prayers, and condolences are with Marshawn’s family, his girlfriend Catalina, his friends, teammates, and the community that is impacted by the loss of Marshawn Kneeland.