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NFL Star Had Biggest Career Moment Days Before Tragic Death

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Photo Credit: "55/365 ~ Dallas Cowboys Helmet" by ray_explores is licensed under CC BY 2.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/?ref=openverse.

Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland had the game of his life just days before his tragic death.

Authorities have released details confirming that the 24-year-old NFL player died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound after a police pursuit late Wednesday night in Texas.

According to a statement from the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), the incident began around 10:33 p.m. when state troopers attempted to initiate a traffic stop.

The driver, later identified as Kneeland, reportedly refused to pull over, prompting a pursuit that was eventually called off after officers lost visual contact with his vehicle.

Officials said the car was later found abandoned, leading to a search in the surrounding area. Kneeland was ultimately discovered dead from what authorities said appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The Collin County Medical Examiner’s Office will make the final determination regarding the official cause of death.

Frisco police said the abandoned vehicle was located minutes after the chase ended. Officers believed Kneeland fled on foot before taking his own life.

During the search, investigators learned that Kneeland had reportedly shown signs of suicidal thoughts earlier that evening.

Dispatch audio obtained by TMZ provided further insight into the tragic incident. One dispatcher can be heard describing the scene where Kneeland was found.

“We didn’t see any movement, still got that heat signature, looks like it’s curled up at the bottom of that porta-potty,” the dispatcher said. “With the stream of blood coming from the porta-potty.”

Another officer added, “He’s going to be laying on his side, facing inward, and quite a bit of blood coming out.”

The audio also referenced reports from Kneeland’s girlfriend, who had contacted police after receiving alarming messages from him.

“We’re talking to the girlfriend, she’s trying to call the agent, so we’re trying to get her to call him first but she’s saying he is armed and has a history of mental illness, and her quote was, ‘He will end it all,’” one dispatcher said in the recording.

Another dispatcher noted that the NFL had contacted Plano police after Kneeland texted his family to say goodbye.

Police urged caution as they searched for the athlete, warning, “You all do me a favor, everybody stay with a buddy, don’t go looking alone, this guy is armed.”

Another dispatcher added, “I just received a group text from him saying goodbye, they’re concerned for his welfare, they do not have a key to the apartment.”

After confirmation of his death early Thursday morning, the Dallas Cowboys released a statement expressing their grief.

“It is with extreme sadness that the Dallas Cowboys share that Marshawn Kneeland tragically passed away this morning,” the statement read.

“Marshawn was a beloved teammate and member of our organization. Our thoughts and prayers regarding Marshawn are with his girlfriend Catalina and his family.”

Kneeland’s family later issued a statement of their own, mourning the sudden loss. “We are devastated by this tremendous loss and are still processing the depth of our grief,” the statement read. “As Marshawn was making his mark on the football field with the Dallas Cowboys, he held an even more special place off the field — as a devoted son, brother, uncle, cousin, nephew, grandson, and friend.”

“He was kind, determined, humble, and full of love. His light shone brightly in every life he touched, and his spirit will continue to live on through the countless hearts he inspired.”

The family thanked fans for their support, adding, “We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support from friends, fans, and the community. During this difficult time, we ask for privacy as we come together as a family to honor and remember Marshawn’s life and legacy.”

Kneeland’s agent, Jon Perzley, also reflected on the loss, recalling the player’s journey from college to the NFL.

“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 said in a statement released through NFL Network.

“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.”

He added, “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. I ask that you please give his loved ones the privacy and compassion they need as they grieve this tremendous loss.”

Several players around the league paid tribute to the young defensive end. Former Cowboys star Micah Parsons, now with the Green Bay Packers, posted a message on Instagram with a photo of Kneeland, writing, “I’m sorry little brother I hope you find peace.”

Kneeland had been entering his second season with the Cowboys after being drafted 56th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft.

His death came just days after he recorded his first career touchdown during Monday night’s matchup against the Arizona Cardinals.

In that game, he recovered a blocked punt for a touchdown late in the second quarter, which was the Cowboys’ first touchdown of the game.

During his rookie season, Kneeland appeared in 11 games, recording six solo tackles and one sack. He played in seven games this season before his death.

His performance had drawn praise from coaches and teammates for his discipline and growing presence on the defensive line.

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