Why Did He Run? NFL Star Marshawn Kneeland’s Final Moments Leave Fans Heartbroken and Searching for Answers.Ng1

The NFL community remains in shock after the heartbreaking death of Dallas Cowboys defensive lineman Marshawn Kneeland, who died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound following a brief police pursuit in Texas late Thursday night.

According to an official statement from the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), officers attempted to stop a vehicle for a traffic violation along the Dallas North Tollway near Keller Springs Boulevard. The driver — later identified as Kneeland — reportedly refused to pull over, leading to a short pursuit before officers lost sight of the vehicle.

Moments later, the car was discovered abandoned near a wooded area. After a search involving aircraft and local police departments, Kneeland was found nearby with a fatal self-inflicted wound. He was just 24 years old.

The details surrounding why Kneeland fled remain unclear. However, TMZ reported that the athlete’s girlfriend contacted authorities moments before the chase, saying she had received a series of “goodbye messages” from Kneeland and feared for his safety. She also told operators that he was armed and struggling with mental health issues.

The Dallas Cowboys released a brief statement expressing their devastation:

“We are deeply heartbroken by the loss of Marshawn. He was more than a teammate — he was family. Our prayers are with his loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.”

Sources close to the team said Kneeland had recently been “quiet and withdrawn,” though no one suspected the situation had become this serious. His teammates, including Micah Parsons and Dak Prescott, have shared emotional tributes online, calling for greater awareness and support for mental health across the league.

“We lose too many good men in silence,” Prescott wrote on X. “Check on your people. Even the ones who smile the most.”

Police confirmed the investigation is ongoing, though foul play has been ruled out. The NFL has also reached out to the Plano Police Department, offering to assist Kneeland’s family and teammates during the aftermath.

As the football world mourns, fans across the country are left asking the same haunting question: What pain was Marshawn Kneeland carrying — and could someone have saved him?