The Siblings and other family members of Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland have released a heartfelt statement confirming the NFL player’s death and mourning the loss of their son, brother, and loved one.
“The Kneeland family can confirm the heartbreaking news of the passing of our beloved Marshawn Kneeland,” the statement reads.
““We are devastated by this tremendous loss and are still processing the depth of our grief. As Marshawn was making his mark on the football field with the Dallas Cowboys, he held an even more special place off the field — as a devoted son, brother, uncle, cousin, nephew, grandson, and friend. He was kind, determined, humble, and full of love. His light shone brightly in every life he touched, and his spirit will continue to live on through the countless hearts he inspired. We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support from friends, fans, and the community. During this difficult time, we ask for privacy as we come together as a family to honor and remember Marshawn’s life and legacy.”
Marshawn Kneeland, 24, was one of four children of Wendy and Shawn Kneeland, alongside siblings AJ, Shawn Michael, and Yahmya.
His mother passed away in 2024 from an undisclosed illness, a loss the family says he carried with him deeply.
Authorities report that Kneeland died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound after a confrontation with law enforcement late Wednesday night.
Marshawn Died of Apparent Suicide
According to dispatch audio, Texas Department of Public Safety troopers attempted to stop Kneeland for a traffic violation on the Dallas North Tollway at around 10:30.
Kneeland refused to stop, leading the officials to chase before losing sight of his vehicle. His abandoned car was later found crashed in the Frisco area.
During the search and investigation, the police department received numerous calls regarding the welfare of the Dallas man.
His girlfriend informed 911 that he was armed, had a history of mental health struggles, and might “end it all.” Officers also later learned the player had suicidal thoughts.
Dispatch recordings also indicate that Kneeland sent texts saying goodbye to his family.
After a search using thermal imaging drones, the Frisco police department located his dead body around 1:30 am inside a portable toilet.
Collin County Medical Examiner’s Office will release a statement regarding the cause of death after the investigation is done.
Kneeland, a second-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft out of Western Michigan, had recently made a mark on the field with the Cowboys, scoring his first NFL touchdown by recovering a blocked punt against the Arizona Cardinals.
After getting drafted from Western Michigan University in the second round of the 2024 NFL draft, he appeared in 18 games across one and a half seasons.
Friends, teammates, and his agent have expressed profound grief, highlighting his talent, dedication, and kindness.
The family’s statement closes with a request for privacy as they grieve and honor Marshawn’s life, emphasizing his lasting impact on everyone who knew him.
