NFL community is reeling after the heartbreaking death of Dallas Cowboys defender Marshawn Kneeland, whose passing on November 6 has sent shockwaves across the sports world. At just 24 years old, the promising athlete’s sudden death has left fans, teammates, and loved ones devastated — and now, new details have emerged shedding light on his final moments.
Tragic end to a rising career
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, the tragic chain of events began on Tuesday evening, November 5, in Frisco, Texas, when police initiated a traffic stop following a moving violation. Reports reveal that Kneeland fled the scene, sparking a brief chase. Law enforcement later discovered his vehicle had crashed, and Kneeland was found dead from what authorities confirmed was a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
The Dallas Cowboys released a heartfelt statement following the devastating news:
“It is with extreme sadness that the Dallas Cowboys share that Marshawn Kneeland tragically passed away this morning,” the team 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.”
Mental health concerns emerge
In the aftermath of Kneeland’s death, troubling new revelations have surfaced, pointing to a mental health crisis in his final hours. TMZ Sports obtained police dispatch audio connected to the case, which reveals that the young defensive end had been in emotional distress before the incident.
The recording indicates that Kneeland said goodbye to his family shortly before the chase, leading authorities to believe he may have been experiencing severe mental anguish. According to the dispatch, operators relayed information from Marshawn Kneeland’s girlfriend, who had received a disturbing message from him and immediately contacted his agent for help.
TMZ further reported that Kneeland’s girlfriend told police he was armed and had a history of mental issues, adding that he had expressed intentions to “end it all.” Dispatch audio also confirmed that emergency operators were in contact with the Dallas Cowboys organization during the crisis.
Tributes and ongoing investigation
As the investigation continues, tributes are pouring in from across the NFL community. Kneeland’s agent, Johnathan Perzley, expressed his grief in a heartfelt statement:
“I am shattered to confirm that my client and dearest friend Marshawn Kneeland passed away last night,” Perzley said. “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.”
Police officials have confirmed that the investigation remains ongoing, as authorities work to piece together the final timeline of events leading up to the tragic night.