Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland has died at the age of 24, the team confirmed on Thursday morning.
“It is with extreme sadness that the Dallas Cowboys share that Marshawn Kneeland tragically passed away this morning,” the club said.
“Marshawn was a beloved teammate and member of our organization. Our thoughts and prayers regarding Marshawn are with his girlfriend Catalina and his family.”
No details have been released about the cause of death.
The news comes just three days after one of the most uplifting moments of Kneeland’s young career.
During Monday’s loss to the Arizona Cardinals, he scored his first NFL touchdown by recovering a blocked punt in the end zone.
One of the last things Marshawn Kneeland did in his life was recover a blocked punt for a TD. This is so shocking and sudden. Another reminder that life can be very short and to show everyone close to you love
pic.twitter.com/f2idnrO3Tk— Bren (@brenmidov) November 6, 2025
His energy and determination had quickly made him a favourite inside the Dallas locker room.
Agent pays emotional tribute to Marshawn Kneeland
Kneeland’s agent, Jon Perzley, confirmed the tragedy and paid tribute to the player’s character.
“I am shattered to confirm that my client and dearest friend Marshawn Kneeland passed away last night,” Perzley said.
“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.
“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.”
From college standout to emerging pro
With the 56th pick the Dallas Cowboys have selected Marshawn Kneeland! @wzzm13 pic.twitter.com/SS6lwJ458p
— Jacob Seus (@Jacob_Seus) April 27, 2024
Selected 56th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, Kneeland joined the Cowboys after a standout career at Western Michigan.
He earned second-team All-Mid-American Conference honours in 2023 and finished his college career with 27.5 tackles for loss, 13 sacks and three forced fumbles in 38 games.
In 18 appearances for Dallas, Kneeland recorded 26 tackles, four quarterback hits, and one sack. He added 15 tackles and a touchdown this season before the team’s bye week.
Tributes from teammates and fans have poured in across social media, reflecting the deep shock within the NFL community.
Many have remembered him for the same passion and humility that carried him from Michigan to the professional stage.
