NFL in mourning: Marshawn Kneeland passes away at age 24, hours after first career TD

Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland passed away in the early hours of Thursday (6), at the age of 24, in Frisco, Texas. The franchise confirmed the death in an official statement, without disclosing the cause. The player had scored his first career touchdown the day before, during a game against the Arizona Cardinals.

Kneeland played in his second season in the NFL. Selected in the second round of the 2024 Draft, he stood out on the defensive line. The news shook the team and the league, which issued a note of condolence.

Monday’s game ended in a 27-17 loss for the Cowboys. In that game, Kneeland recovered a blocked punt in the end zone, securing crucial points. The move marked the culmination of his brief professional career.

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 career and entry into the NFL

Marshawn Kneeland began his football journey at Western Michigan University. There, he played 50 games between 2019 and 2023, accumulating 104 tackles and 12 sacks. His performance caught the attention of NFL scouts.

The Cowboys drafted him with the 56th overall pick in 2024. As a rookie, he suffered a knee injury, which left himmissed six matches. Still, he played in 11 games, with one as a starter.

In the current season, Kneeland came back stronger. He recorded a sack in the opener against the Philadelphia Eagles. His dedication in training impressed his teammates and coaching staff.

2025 season performance

Kneeland has played in seven of the Cowboys’ nine games this year. His numbers include 15 tackles, one sack and six quarterback pressures. This data reinforces its role in the defensive rotation.

In 18 career games, he had 26 tackles, one forced fumble and one pass defense. Monday’s touchdown raised his average points contributed. The Cowboys defense, with him, allowed an average of 22 points per game.

• Total tackles: 26 in 18 games;
• Sacks: 1, against Eagles in Week 1;
• QB pressures: 6 in the current season;
• First TD: Blocked punt recovery.

Team and League Statements

The Dallas Cowboys issued a statement highlighting Kneeland as a beloved teammate. The text mentions support for his girlfriend Catalina and her family. The organization has canceled grief training activities.

The NFL expressed deep sadness over the loss. The league offered psychological support to the team. Counseling resources were made available to everyone involved.

TheAgent Jonathan Perzley described Kneeland as talented and dedicated. He followed the player since university. The statement emphasizes the impact of the absence in the locker room.

Family and personal context

Kneeland grew up in Lansing, Michigan, where he discovered the sport as a teenager. His mother, Wendy, passed away shortly before the 2024 Draft. He carried her ashes on a necklace in tribute.

His family always encouraged his career. Kneeland mentioned in interviews his dream of reaching the NFL, which he realized at the age of 22. His girlfriend Catalina was a constant presence at games.

Friends remember his kindness off the field. He participated in community activities in Frisco. Local community plans tribute at next Cowboys game.

Teammate reactions

Cowboys players shared messages of support. Quarterback Dak Prescott called Kneeland his “little brother.” Defender Micah Parsons highlighted his energy in training.

Coaches praised his work ethic. Head coach Mike McCarthy paused the press conference to pay his condolences. The focus now is on the well-being of the cast.

Other NFC East teams issued notes. The Eagles and Giants showed solidarity. Rivalry gave way to unity at the moment.

Next steps for the franchise

The Cowboys enter a bye week after Week 9. Their next game takes place on November 17th against the Las Vegas Raiders. The absence ofKneeland changes defensive strategy.

The team evaluates replacements on the line. Practice squad recruits get a chance. The technical committee prioritizes emotional recovery.

The NFL is monitoring the impact on the calendar. No postponement has been announced. The focus remains on supporting players.

Kneeland’s death is the first of a midseason asset since 2018. Precedents include cases from 2012 with the Cowboys. The league reinforces mental health programs.