The young defensive end's life was cut short. The Cowboys mourn a beloved teammate and a promising future tragically lost.
The Dallas Cowboys have reportedly suffered an immeasurable tragedy. According to a statement released by the team, Cowboys' defensive end Marshawn Kneeland passed away at the age of 24 on Thursday morning.
“It is with extreme sadness that the Dallas Cowboys share that Marshawn Kneeland tragically passed away this morning. Marshawn was a beloved teammate and member of our organization. Our thoughts and prayers regarding Marshawn are with his girlfriend Catalina and his family.”
Mike Garafolo of NFL Network shared a statement from Kneeland's agent, Jon Perzley, who confirmed the haunting news.
There are no details released yet on the details surrounding Kneeland's unexpected passing. Kneeland was Dallas' second-round pick in 2024, and made a splash on national television as recently as Monday Night against the Washington Commanders when he blocked a punt in the end zone to recover the first touchdown of the night.
After being selected No. 56 overall out of Western Michigan in 2024, Kneeland immediately made an impact on the Cowboys' roster, starting one game as a rookie and appearing in 11 contests. He had recorded one start this season already and played in seven of the team's nine games.
Kneeland also recorded his first career sack this season in Dallas' opener against the Philadelphia Eagles. He had six solo tackles, 12 total, one sack, and three stuffs in the 2025 NFL season.
Jane Slater with NFL Network shared a statement this morning from Kneeland's former defensive coordinator, Mike Zimmer, following the news of Kneeland's passing.
“He was a great person, eager to learn .. wanted to be great. He didn’t take any crap from anyone on the field. He studied hard-loved playing the game . Tough. Zimmer added “My last conversation with him was keep being you you’re going to have a great career.”
There aren't really that many things to say that make something like this make sense, nor is it the time to start talking about how the Cowboys replace Kneeland on the field. This is nothing short of tragic and shocking, and the team will need space and time to deal with the magnitude of this sudden loss.
Dallas is on a bye this week, and will at least have a little time midseason to attempt to process and grieve the unexpected passing of Kneeland.
This is a developing story that will be updated accordingly and without speculation as details are released.
Frisco Police have now released a statement regarding Kneeland’s death.
