The investigation into the death of Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland has taken a heartbreaking turn, as new details have surfaced about the events leading up to the tragedy.
According to the Frisco (Texas) Police Department, Kneeland — just 24 years old — was involved in a police pursuit shortly before he was found dead early Thursday morning. Authorities say that at around 10:39 p.m. on November 5, troopers with the Texas Department of Public Safety attempted to stop a vehicle that had fled during a traffic stop.
Police lost sight of the car briefly — but minutes later, it was discovered crashed along Dallas Parkway. Officers later identified the driver as Kneeland.
By 1:31 a.m., police located him deceased near the scene. Officials confirmed his death is being investigated as a suspected suicide, pending results from the Collin County Medical Examiner’s Office.
The news has devastated the Cowboys organization and fans across the NFL. Kneeland, a rookie second-round pick from Western Michigan, had just scored his first NFL touchdown days earlier — a blocked punt recovery during Monday Night Football against Arizona.
His teammates and coaches described him as a “light in the locker room” and “one of the hardest-working young men” on the roster. Head coach Mike McCarthy told reporters,
“Marshawn brought energy and love to this team every single day. He was family.”
Star linebacker Micah Parsons posted an emotional message on Instagram following the news, writing:
“My heart hurts, bro. You had the biggest smile and the kindest soul. Rest easy, 92.”
The NFL and NFL Players Association have issued statements offering condolences and emphasizing the availability of mental health support for all players and staff.
Kneeland’s death has sparked widespread discussions around the mental and emotional pressures NFL rookies face — especially as they navigate the transition to fame, scrutiny, and performance expectations.
As fans and teammates continue to grieve, the Cowboys plan to honor Kneeland with a helmet decal and pregame moment of silence this weekend.
The investigation remains ongoing.
For those struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org for free, confidential support 24/7.
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