NFL Player Marshawn Kneeland Dead at 23 Apparent Self-Inflicted Gunshot Wound, Goodbye Text Revealed
Tragic news has shaken the NFL community — Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland has died at just 24 years old from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to police reports and dispatch audio obtained by TMZ Sports.
Authorities say the young player appeared to be experiencing a mental health crisis in the hours leading up to his death, sending goodbye messages to loved ones before the fatal incident.
Goodbye Text and Desperate Search
The heartbreaking details emerged from Texas police dispatch recordings from late Wednesday night. In the audio, operators can be heard relaying information from Kneeland’s girlfriend, who said she had received a disturbing message from the player and was trying to contact his agent.
She reportedly told officers that Kneeland was armed and had a history of mental health struggles, saying he might “end it all.”
Dispatchers also mentioned that the NFL had contacted Plano Police after learning that Kneeland had texted his family to say goodbye. Officials were then in communication with the Dallas Cowboys organization as the situation unfolded.
Police Pursuit and Discovery
According to Frisco Police, the tragic chain of events began around 10:39 PM, when Kneeland was involved in a traffic pursuit after officers attempted to pull him over for a violation.
He reportedly evaded troopers, and after losing track of his vehicle, officers found it crashed along the Dallas Parkway a few minutes later. Kneeland was not at the scene, leading to an extensive search.
Around 1:30 AM, police located his body in a portable toilet, where he appeared to have died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
The official cause of death is still under investigation, but early reports confirm the devastating loss was the result of suicide.
Cowboys and Agent Share Emotional Tributes
Following confirmation of his death, the Dallas Cowboys released a somber statement:
“Marshawn was a beloved teammate and member of our organization. Our thoughts and prayers regarding Marshawn are with his girlfriend Catalina and his family.”
His agent, Jonathan Perzley, also shared an emotional message, writing:
“I am shattered to confirm that my client and dearest friend Marshawn Kneeland passed away last night. I watched him fight his way from a hopeful kid at Western Michigan with a dream of being a respected professional for the Dallas Cowboys. Marshawn poured his heart into every snap, every practice, and every moment on the field. To lose someone with his talent, spirit, and goodness is a pain I can hardly put into words.”
A Rising Star Gone Too Soon
Kneeland, a Western Michigan Broncos alum, was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the 2024 NFL Draft and was widely regarded as a promising young player known for his dedication, athleticism, and leadership.
Teammates and fans have taken to social media to express their grief and share memories of the defensive end who was just beginning to make his mark in professional football.
If You or Someone You Know Needs Help
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available 24/7.
📞 Call or text 988 or chat online at 988lifeline.org to connect with the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
No one has to face it alone.
