The football world is mourning the loss of Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland, who died Thursday at just 24 years old. News of Kneeland’s passing spread quickly across social media, prompting an emotional wave of reactions from players, coaches, teams, and fans across the NFL and college football communities.
Neither the Cowboys nor the NFL have released additional details beyond those confirmed by local authorities.
NFL and NFLPA release statements
Shortly after the news broke, both the NFL and the NFL Players Association posted condolences on X (formerly Twitter), expressing sympathy to his family and acknowledging his impact on the league in his short time as a professional athlete.
“We are heartbroken by the passing of Marshawn Kneeland,” the league’s statement read. “Our thoughts are with his loved ones, his teammates, and the entire Cowboys organization.”
We are deeply saddened by the tragic news of the passing of Cowboys’ Marshawn Kneeland.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his girlfriend Catalina, family, friends and his teammates. pic.twitter.com/4kowniiC0c
— NFL (@NFL) November 6, 2025
College coach: “My heart is absolutely broken”
Kneeland previously played college football at Western Michigan University, where he became a standout leader in the Broncos’ defensive unit.
WMU’s football program shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, including a statement from head coach Lance Taylor, who coached Kneeland during his first season with the team:
“My heart is absolutely broken over the loss of Marshawn Kneeland.
Marshawn was so much more than an incredible football player—he was a remarkable young man who meant so much to our program and to me personally.
His leadership, energy, and smile were infectious, and he left a lasting impact on everyone in our program.
Marshawn will forever be a part of the Bronco brotherhood.”
Taylor added that the two shared a “special bond that went far beyond football.”
NFL players react: “I hope you find peace, lil brother”
Teammates and former NFL stars shared emotional tributes throughout the day. Micah Parsons, Kneeland’s teammate with the Cowboys last season before Parsons’ trade to the Green Bay Packers, posted a message on Instagram:
“I’m sorry lil brother. I hope you find peace.”
Cowboys legend and Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith also shared a tribute, expressing condolences to Kneeland’s family and calling his loss “a tragedy for the entire football brotherhood.”
Heartbroken. Sending my deepest condolences to Marshawn Kneeland’s family and loved ones. https://t.co/1oiUjLqSkb
— Emmitt Smith (@EmmittSmith22) November 6, 2025
Former All-Pro defensive end and CBS Sports commentator JJ Watt posted on X:
“Heartbreaking news. 24 years old with his whole life ahead of him.
Rest in peace, Marshawn.”
Difficult to process the horrible news out of Dallas. Just tragic.
RIP Marshawn Kneeland.
— JJ Watt (@JJWatt) November 6, 2025
Personal life & circumstances of death
Newly released dispatch audio obtained by People reveals that Kneeland’s girlfriend called police the night before his death, reporting that he was armed and had expressed suicidal ideation. (People.com) According to the audio, his family had received a group text from him saying goodbye shortly before his death.
Authorities say Kneeland died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound after being involved in a pursuit and subsequent vehicle crash in Frisco, Texas in the early hours of November 6. The official cause and manner of death remain under investigation by the Collin County Medical Examiner’s Office.
Kneeland kept much of his personal life private, but the details emerging from the investigation paint a deeply concerning picture of his final hours. His girlfriend, in her 911 call, reportedly said she feared he “would end it all.”
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A rising talent gone too soon
Kneeland, known for his explosive athleticism and relentless motor on defense, was considered a rising star. He had earned praise throughout training camp and preseason for his work ethic and leadership qualities.
While his NFL journey had only just begun, those who knew him describe him as someone whose presence off the field mattered even more.
Fans across social media echoed the same sentiment:
“Gone far too soon.” “Rest easy, big man.” “Forever part of Cowboys Nation.”
Legacy of impact
Marshawn Kneeland leaves behind a legacy defined not only by football accomplishments, but by character, leadership, and the deep connections he formed everywhere he played.
The football world lost a player today— but his teammates, coaches, and loved ones lost a brother.