Multiple outlets report that Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot 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,” the team said in a statement.
The Guardian shared:
According to the Frisco police department, Kneeland appeared to have taken his own life after a late-night vehicle pursuit and multi-agency search. Officers said Kneeland fled on foot after a crash on southbound Dallas Parkway on Wednesday night and was later located at 1.31am. The cause and manner of death will be determined by the Collin County medical examiner’s office.
His agent, Jonathan Perzley, paid tribute to his client. “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 to being a respected professional for the Dallas Cowboys,” Perzley wrote in a statement.
“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. My heart aches for his family, his teammates, and everyone who loved him, and I hope they feel the support of the entire football community during this unimaginable time.”
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"Dispatch audio obtained by TMZ reveals Cowboys player Marshawn Kneeland took his life after an apparent mental health episode. Frisco Police say they found Kneeland with a self-inflicted gunshot wound inside a portable toilet following a pursuit," Collin Rugg said.
"Kneeland's girlfriend said she received a 'concerning message' from her boyfriend saying he would 'end it all.' The defensive end, who scored a touchdown over the weekend against the Cardinals, allegedly had evaded troopers during a pursuit," he continued.
Listen below:
NEW: Dispatch audio obtained by TMZ reveals Cowboys player Marshawn Kneeland took his life after an apparent mental health episode.
Frisco Police say they found Kneeland with a self-inflicted gunshot wound inside a portable toilet following a pursuit.
Kneeland's girlfriend said… pic.twitter.com/Pd021AhrP6
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) November 6, 2025
ESPN provided further info:
The Cowboys have made counseling resources available to all players, coaches and staff. The players are on their bye week and are not scheduled to practice again until Monday.
According to Frisco (Texas) Police, the department responded to assist the Texas Department of Public Safety with locating a vehicle that evaded troopers during a pursuit that entered the city at approximately 10:39 p.m. CT Wednesday.
DPS troopers found Kneeland's vehicle crashed on southbound Dallas Parkway near Warren Parkway. According to the report, Kneeland fled the scene on foot and officers searched the area with help from K-9 and drone units.
Approximately three hours later, Kneeland was found with what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. During the course of the search, officers received information that Kneeland "expressed suicidal ideations," according to the report.
CBS Texas provided additional coverage:
