Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland, 24, was found dead of an apparent suicide after evading police, fleeing a crash scene, and sending 'goodbye' messages to friends, prompting a search and ultimately, his discovery with a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland, 24, was found dead of an apparent suicide early Thursday morning, approximately three hours after a police chase. The incident began Wednesday night when Kneeland evaded Texas Department of Public Safety troopers for a traffic violation, with Frisco police joining the pursuit. After authorities lost sight of his vehicle, it was located crashed minutes later, and Kneeland fled the scene on foot. During the subsequent search, officers received critical information that Kneeland might be suicidal. Dispatchers relayed that people close to him had received a group text from Kneeland 'saying goodbye,' and his girlfriend informed police that he was armed, had a history of mental illness, and stated, 'He will end it all.' Kneeland was ultimately found dead of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Kneeland was in his second season with the Cowboys, a 2024 second-round draft pick from Western Michigan, and had recently scored a touchdown by recovering a blocked punt. His rookie season showed promise despite injuries, and he recorded his first career sack this year. The news prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes from his agent, Jonathan Perzley, the Dallas Cowboys organization, the NFL, his college coach Lance Taylor, and former Cowboys coach Robert Prince. Many highlighted his talent, spirit, and infectious personality. The article also notes the sudden death of Kneeland's mother during his draft preparation. Tributes from other NFL players, including Jeffery Simmons, emphasized the importance of checking in on others and seeking help for mental health. The article also mentions that Cowboys teammates Dak Prescott and Solomon Thomas have siblings who died by suicide and are involved in suicide awareness. An editor's note provides resources for suicide prevention.
