The football world was shocked this November by the sudden and tragic death of Mars, a promising 24-year-old Dallas Cowboys player.
Kneeland, a second-year player drafted by the Cowboys in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft, was found dead on November 6, 2025, in Frisco, Texas, from a self-inflicted gunshot wound following
According to the Texas Department of Corrections, officers attempted to
The Cowboys confirmed the heartbreaking news early the next morning. In an emotional statement, the team said: “The Dallas Cowboys are deeply saddened to announce that Marshawn Kneeland tragically passed away this morning. Marshawn was a beloved teammate and member of the team.” They extended Catalina Mancera .
Kneeland recently scored the first touchdown of his NFL career—a memorable save after a blocked kick in another game
A rising talent discovered too early
Born on July 8, 2001, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Kneeland excelled at Godwin Heights High School, where he set numerous defensive records before going on to play at Western Michigan University. There, he earned second-team All-Mid-America honors and quickly gained attention for his power-play combination.
Selected 56th overall by the Cowboys in 2024, Kneeland has worked his way up to become a rotational defensive player and special teams contributor
But off the field, Kneeland faces personal challenges. Friends and teammates noted his warm spirit and dedication, qualities that brought joy to everyone around him.
Responses from the NFL and Beyond
The response across the NFL was immediate and heartfelt. Clubs paused to remember Kneeland, and the league reported moments of silence at NFL games in Week 10 to honor him. Teams also shared their support
Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer publicly acknowledged
Adding to the emotional toll of the loss, it was revealed that Kneeland’s girlfriend, Catalina Mancera, was pregnant with his child. The Cowboys have since announced Marshawn took the knee to provide long-term
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