Frisco, Texas – November 6, 2025 – The Dallas Cowboys organization is mourning the loss of defensive end Marshawn Kneeland, who tragically passed away in the early hours of November 6, 2025, from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound following a police pursuit and vehicle crash in Frisco, Texas. This heartbreaking incident marks the first death of an active NFL player during the season since 2018.

Late on November 5, 2025, at approximately 11:40 p.m. CT, Plano Police responded to a welfare concern at an address associated with Kneeland. The situation escalated into a vehicle pursuit that concluded with a crash on southbound Dallas Parkway near Warren Parkway. After fleeing on foot, a multi-agency search involving K-9 units and drones located Kneeland at 1:31 a.m. on November 6, where he was found deceased with what authorities have described as a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The Frisco Police Department and Texas Department of Public Safety have classified the incident as an apparent suicide. Officers reported prior indications of “suicidal ideations.” The final determination regarding the cause and manner of death will be made by the Collin County Medical Examiner’s Office. Ongoing investigations currently point to suicide, with no involvement of other individuals.

Marshawn Kneeland was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the second round (56th overall) of the 2024 NFL Draft after a standout career at Western Michigan University, where he accumulated 149 tackles and 12.5 sacks over three seasons. In his second season in the NFL, he participated in seven games (three starts), achieving 12 tackles, one sack, and six quarterback pressures. Notably, he scored his first career NFL touchdown on November 3, 2025, through a blocked punt recovery against the Arizona Cardinals—just days before his untimely death.

In his personal life, Kneeland faced significant challenges, including the loss of his mother, Wendy, shortly before the 2024 draft. He often credited her as the inspiration behind his passion for football. He is survived by his girlfriend, Catalina, and his family, who expressed their devastation in a statement, describing him as a “devoted son, brother, uncle, cousin, nephew, grandson, and friend.”

 Statements

– Dallas Cowboys: “It is with extreme sadness that the Dallas Cowboys share the tragic news of Marshawn Kneeland’s passing this morning. Marshawn was a beloved teammate and integral member of our organization. Our thoughts and prayers are with his girlfriend Catalina and his family during this incredibly difficult time.”

– NFL: “We are deeply saddened by the news of Marshawn Kneeland’s passing. We have been in contact with the Cowboys and have offered support and counseling resources for those affected.”

– Agent Jonathan Perzley: “I am shattered to confirm the loss of my client and dear friend, Marshawn Kneeland. I witnessed his journey from a hopeful kid at Western Michigan with a dream to becoming a respected professional for the Dallas Cowboys. To lose someone with his talent, spirit, and goodness is a pain that is difficult to express.”

– Family Statement: “We are devastated by this tremendous loss and are still processing the depth of our grief.”

Tributes and Impact

Teammates and fans have begun to pay tribute to Kneeland online, with tight end Jake Ferguson sharing heartfelt sentiments on Instagram, stating, “Love you brother” alongside black heart emojis. As the Cowboys are currently on their bye week, players have been offered counseling resources to help cope with this tragic loss. This incident echoes previous tragedies within the franchise, including the 2012 death of practice squad linebacker Jerry Brown in a car accident.

For those seeking mental health support, the NFL Lifeline is available 24/7 at 1-800-273-8255 (TALK) or by texting “HOME” to 741741.